Prince William and Kate Middleton are engaged

After a courtship lasting eight years, Prince William has proposed to his sweetheart Kate Middleton.


"The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton"


These words, which appeared on the British Monarchy's official Twitter page on Tuesday, confirmed the happy news that the future king is due to wed. 




A full statement from Clarence House said the highly-anticipated nuptials will take place next year. 

"The wedding will take place in the spring or summer of 2011, in London. Further details about the wedding day will be announced in due course," read the statement. 

The announcement also gave details of William's romantic proposal, which took place "in October during a private holiday in Kenya". 

It continued: "Prince William has informed The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince William has also sought the permission of Miss Middleton’s father. 

"Following the marriage, the couple will live in north Wales, where Prince William will continue to serve with the Royal Air Force." 

The couple have been dating since meeting at St Andrews University. They separated briefly in 2007, but have been together ever since.