THERE is a royal baby on the way, and now we know when to expect it.

Will and Kate have confirmed through the Kensington Palace that little George, who had his first birthday in July, is due to have a younger brother or sister come April next year.

In a statement, the palace has told how the Duchess of Cambridge's notorious morning sickness was "steadily improving".
 

She is due to front the public for the first time since her pregnancy was first announced in September.

Kate will join husband Will, the Duke, to welcome Singapore president Tony Tan to a four-day visit of the British Isles.

BBC reports the newest addition to the royal family will become the fourth in line to the throne, behind George.

This is the second time the couple have announce their pregnancy before the traditional 12-week milestone.

Kate is again understood to be suffering from acute morning sickness or "hyperemesis gravidarum", that can require extra water and potentially medication.

The BBC believes that with the statement referring to a "baby", it has ruled out the possibility of twins.