Pitter-Patter At The Palace-Kate & William's Baby News

The Cambridges have given the Queen the best pressie

Dazzling in a floor-length velvet navy gown and stunning Lover’s Knot Tiara, the Duchess of Cambridge looked every bit the princess as she attended a lavish Buckingham Palace gala evening last week.

With her husband Prince William at her side, a beaming Kate positively glowed as she arrived at the glamorous Diplomatic Corp annual reception, which is hosted by the Queen and attended by 1000 international dignitaries.

The white-tie engagement is usually the final major undertaking for the royal family before they head to Sandringham for the Queen’s traditional Christmas – and after a nightmarish few months, there’s no doubt they’ll be breathing a collective sigh of relief as they step out of the public eye.

But for parents-of-three Kate and William, there’s an extra-special reason for their smiles this festive season, with speculation reaching fever pitch that Kate is expecting their fourth child! And according to several close palace sources, the couple couldn’t be happier.

“They’re still keeping mum on it, but all signs are pointing to the fact there’s another little heir on the way,” tells our insider. “Kate and William have always said that four is their magic number, and the timing couldn’t be better given the difficult few months the royal family has endured.”

While the news has yet to be officially confirmed by the palace, insiders reveal the duchess has told friends that a pregnancy would be the best Christmas present she ever could hope for.

In fact, the excited royals – who are already parents to Prince George, six, Princess Charlotte, four, and one-year-old Prince Louis – have reportedly already shared their special announcement with the Queen in a bid to lift her spirits.