Outside the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital where the Duchess of Cambridge is due to give birth to the second royal baby, excitement is building. The throngs of Union Jack-clad supporters keeping a respectful distance until an announcement that the Duchess, née Kate Middleton, is in labour now feel that an official statement is imminent.
Kate is thought to be several days past her due date
This anticipation is fuelled by the fact that the media have begun congregating. Most tellingly, Sky news correspondent Kay Burley has taken up her post in readiness for the all-important news that Prince George's sibling is on the way.
Video: live stream at Lindo Wing
It is thought that Prince William's wife is now several days past her due date and doctors will not want to wait too long before they induce her. It's unlikely that the great Kate wait will last too much longer as parking restrictions around the hospital were only put into place for the month of April.
Royal enthusiasts are already in a celebratory mood
The Duchess was also seen last week shopping for home furnishings in the Zara store near Kensington Palace, suggesting that she is in nesting mode – which is thought to herald impending labour.Meanwhile, her mother Carole Middleton was seen looking smiley as she popped into her favourite hairdressing salon for a touch up, presumably anticipating being in the spotlight this week.
Police have stepped up their activity around the hospital
On Tuesday, Twitter carried reports that police protection officers have been seen sweeping the area outside the hospital. Other baby enthusiasts went so far as to say that a royal convoy had been seen leaving Kensington Palace accompanying an ambulance.The only ones not making any comment on the royal baby were the official Twitter accounts of the monarchy. Kensington Palace's account was showing a post from Sunday about Prince Harry's attendance at the marathon. He is now back Down Under to continue his secondment with the Australian Army, meaning that he will miss the arrival of his new niece or nephew.
Meanwhile, Buckingham Palace's account bore a message that the Queen has sent commiserating with the people of Nepal over the devastating earthquake.