Neighbours of Kate Middleton’s family today described news of her engagement to Prince William as ”simply wonderful”.
The news spread like wildfire around the sleepy village of Chapel Row near Newbury, Berks., where Kate’s parents Michael and Carole live.
Bed and Breakfast owner Tim Hirst, 50, who owns B&B on The Avenue just a few hundred yards from the Middletons, said: ”The family are very much loved here.
”Kate and William have been seen walking around, they drink in the local pubs, it’s really good news for everyone this afternoon.
”They’re a lovely family and she’s a lovely girl. They’re friendly and capable and am sure they’ll cope admirably with the pressures of entering the Royal Family.
”Everyone is thrilled and I’m sure every one in the surrounding area will be too.
”I’m sure there will be a celebration in the village on the day of the wedding. There’s a meadow next to the butchers that has a May Fayre and we’ll congregate there for a celebration, no doubt.
”There has been a lot of uncertainity so it’s nice to finally get some news.”
Local resident Alasdair McOran-Campbell, 68, who has lived in the village for 14 years, described the news as wonderful.
He said: ”Everyone is delighted for Kate. The family keep a low profile here and they’re very much respected.
”People may have been worried about the outcome but now it’s wonderful news and am sure the village joins everyone in wishing them every happiness together.”
A racehorse called ‘To Catch a Prince’ scored a timely victory today by winning the 1pm Wensum Valley Selling Handicap Hurdle at Fakenham Racecourse in Norfolk – just hours after it emerged Kate Middleton is to marry Prince William.
