Christmas with the in-laws for Duke

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will spend Christmas at the Middleton family home, St James's Palace said.

Prince William and his pregnant wife are to spend the day privately in Bucklebury, Berkshire - a decision taken with the approval of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

The royal couple also plan to visit the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk during the festive period.

A St James's Palace spokesman said: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will spend Christmas Day privately with the Middleton family."

The announcement that Kate and William would return to her parents' home on Christmas Day comes after the Duchess was admitted to hospital for three days following a bout of severe morning sickness.

Kate left King Edward VII's Hospital in London on December 6, following treatment for a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum, which leaves expectant mothers so ill they cannot keep food or liquids down.

She was then ordered by doctors to have a period of rest at her home at Kensington Palace which meant she was unable to attend some engagements.

The decision to spend Christmas Day with the Middletons marks a change from last year when the Duke and Duchess joined other members of the Royal Family at Sandringham, where the royals are traditionally expected to spend December 25.

It is unclear how long the Duke and Duchess will spend with the Middletons.