The tabloids have speculated for months now that Kate Middleton has a royal bun in the oven -- and, like the proverbial blind squirrel who eventually gets the nut, they're finally right.

According to an official statement from Buckingham Palace, Middleton and Prince William, who married to great fanfare last year, are expecting an heir. Members of both families -- which include Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, Charles, Camilla and Prince Harry -- are said to be "delighted" with the news.

Meanwhile, the Duchess was admitted to King Edward VII Hospital in Central London with "very acute morning sickness, which requires supplementary hydration and nutrients."

"As the pregnancy is in its very early stages, Her Royal Highness is expected to stay in hospital for several days and will require a period of rest thereafter," the palace statement said.

Let the Royal Bump Watch commence.

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