Prince William, Kate Middleton blessed with baby boy

It's a boy! Prince William and wife Kate Middleton today welcomed a new prince, the fifth-in-line to Britain's throne, as the Duchess of Cambridge gave birth at a central London hospital.

The baby was born at 1101hrs local time, Kensington Palace said in a statement.

William, the 35-year-old Duke of Cambridge, was present at the birth of his boy, who weighs 3.82 kg. The palace added that the mother and baby are "doing well".

"The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry and members of both families have been informed and are delighted with the news," the statement said.

A notice has been placed on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace following the announcement of the birth of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's third child.

The practice of posting a bulletin outside the Palace announcing a royal birth has gone on for at least as long as Buckingham Palace has been the Sovereign's official residence - since 1837.

A large Union Flag has been raised over Buckingham Palace and a State Standard over Windsor Castle to mark the birth of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's third child.

The new baby is fifth-in-line to the British throne, behind his grandfather Prince Charles, father Prince William, brother Prince George, 4, and sister Princess Charlotte, 2.

The name of the new prince has not yet been announced. Favourites at the bookmakers include Arthur, Albert, Frederick, James and Philip, the BBC reported.

Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted her "warmest congratulations" to William and Catherine.

She said: "I wish them great happiness for the future."
"May God bless them and all of their children with love, happiness and health."