NI Shares Royal 'Delight' Over Engagement

As well as The Queen being pleased by the news, there have been many congratulations expressed from NI to Prince William and Kate Middleton following the announcement of their engagement on Tuesday.

The couple, both aged 28, are expected to marry in the summer of next year, around August.

Her Majesty The Queen (pictured here by Brian McCalden on her recent visit to Belfast) and the Duke of Edinburgh were "absolutely delighted", Buckingham Palace said.

During a reception at Windsor Castle for leaders of British overseas territories including Bermuda, Montserrat and the Falklands Islands on Tuesday, the Queen also told a guest who congratulated her: "It is brilliant news. It has taken them a very long time."

In NI, the Ulster Unionist party leader Tom Elliott said he would "look forward to celebrating the wedding next year."

First Minister, Peter Robinson said that he believed people from all backgrounds in Northern Ireland would be watching the nuptials.

Like The Queen, Mr Robinson said: "On behalf of the people of Northern Ireland I am delighted that Prince William has formally announced his engagement.

"This announcement is of huge significance not only for the Royal Family but for all the people of the United Kingdom. I would like to offer them my warmest congratulations and best wishes in their future life together."

Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister said the wedding would be a "joyous occasion" across the UK.

Prince William and Kate Middleton both started out on the same history of art course at St Andrews in 2001, although William later switched to geography. For several years, they shared accommodation with friends.

They split briefly in 2007, but more recently Miss Middleton - who has no royal or aristocratic family connections - has been to several official events, heightening speculation of an engagement.

(BMcC/GK)