It's a boy! Kate gives birth to royal couple's first child

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have become parents for the first time after giving birth to a baby boy.

The baby was delivered at 16:24 BST at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, west London, weighing 8lb 6oz.

The Duke of Cambridge was present at the birth.

The hospital issued a bulletin delivering the news to the palace. It was signed by doctor who led the medical team, the Queen's gynaecologist Marcus Setchell and carried under police escort. It said

"Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Cambridge was safely delivered of a son at 4.24pm today".

It continued by confirming that mother and baby are  "doing well" and will be staying in hospital overnight.

A statement from Kensington Palace said: "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 Prince of Wales said he was "enormously proud and happy to be a grandfather for the first time". He described the news as "an incredibly special moment for William and Catherine".

There is no news on a name at this stage but it has been confirmed that the boy will be given the title Prince of Cambridge.

Politicians offered their congratulations via Twitter.

David Cameron said: "I'm delighted for the Duke and Duchess now their son has been born. The whole country will celebrate. They'll make wonderful parents."

The Labour leader Ed Miliband said: "Many congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I wish them and their son all happiness and good health."

The Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: "Congratulations to The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Good news to make the whole country smile."

The Archbishop of Canterbury said he was "delighted to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the arrival of their baby boy.

"Along with millions here and around the world, I share in their joy at this special time."

"May God bless this family with love, health and happiness in their shared life ahead."