She's known to the world as Kate Middleton, the long-term love of heir-to-the-throne Prince William. Now, though, the pretty brunette has requested she be referred to as Catherine - the name used by those closest to her.
"No one ever referred to her as Kate - ever," reveals an old school chum. "Her family and close friends have always called her Catherine and that's the way she prefers it."
The 26-year-old's desire to return to her correct, and more formal moniker comes as speculation regarding a royal engagement reaches fever pitch. "There's a distinct feeling she's started to become very aware of her position," confirms one of her close friends.
Kate and her royal beau are currently enjoying a romantic holiday at a luxurious £1,785-a-night villa on the Caribbean island of Mustique. And friends of the couple - whose romance began in 2004 as students at St Andrews University - believe Wills may be planning to propose.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
