PALACE PLEA: GIVE KATE TIME & SPACE

Officials blast health rumours after 'social media madness'

- RUSSELL MYERS

KENSINGTON Palace last night appealed for calm amid the relentless rumours about the Princess of Wales' health.

Officials blasted the "madness of social media" after weeks of often unkind and outlandish speculation over why Kate was taking an extended break from royal duties. The aides have been reluctant to give running a commentary on her condition or from recovery abdominal surgery on January 16. Kensington Palace had said she would be out of official action until after Easter.