Prince William and Kate Middleton are engaged to be married next year, according to a statement from Clarence House.
The couple, who began dating in 2003 but briefly split in 2007, got secretly engaged in October during a holiday in Kenya.
A statement from Clarence House, said: “The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton.
“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.
“Prince William and Miss Middleton became engaged in October during a private holiday in Kenya.
“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.
In keeping with tradition, the heir to the throne would have had to gain the Queen’s permission before making a public announcement.
The couple sent the rumour mill in to overdrive this summer when they were pictured together at a friend’s wedding.
Their decision to appear together ‘so publicly’ – they had previously always arrived and left separately – was read as a ‘significant move’ in Kate’s position amongst the Royals.
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They have proved their love for and dedication to each other.