DIGNITARIES from the area have extended their good wishes to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, following the announcement they are expecting their first baby.

The news was confirmed by St James’s Palace on Monday, with a spokesman saying the royal couple had become aware of the pregnancy “recently”.

The spokesman added the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and members of both families were delighted with the news.

Kate was admitted to a private hospital for treatment for a severe form of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum, which can be so severe women cannot keep food or liquid down.

It is understood the pregnancy has not passed the 12- week point and the announcement was prompted by the Duchess’s medical condition.

Mayor of Malvern, Ian Hopwood, said: “I wish the royal couple all the best because my wife has had difficult pregnancies. I think the Duke and Duchess should be left in peace so the pregnancy goes smoothly. Then we will break the casket of ale and celebrate.”

Mayor of Upton, Andrea Morgan, said: “I was so thrilled to hear the wonderful news.

“They are such a lovely couple and will make wonderful parents.

“I just hope that they can get on with enjoying their family as any other young couple would without too much outside pressure.“ Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, said: “Congratulations to the royal couple on this wonderful news. I hope the Duchess of Cambridge is able to rest and recover from her morning sickness.”

Angela Brinton, a deputy lieutenant of Worcestershire, said: “We hope her royal highness’s morning sickness ameliorates itself soon. You could not ask for a better way to end the jubilee and it is a lovely Christmas present.”