THE Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have named their baby son George Alexander Louis.
Kensington Palace said the newborn will be called Prince George of Cambridge, with the couple choosing a first name used by six previous kings.
It was a favourite with bookmakers ever since the Duke and Duchess revealed they had put together a shortlist halfway through Kate's pregnancy.
The Queen visited the Duke and Duchess at Kensington Palace and may have learned of their choice at the meeting. Historian and biographer Robert Lacey said: "George is a tribute to the Queen's father and will, I imagine, give Her Majesty great pleasure."
All three names have strong royal connections. Alexander is the name of three medieval Scottish kings.
His other name – Louis – could be another tribute to a Royal Family member – Lord Louis Mountbatten, the Duke of Edinburgh's uncle and the last British Viceroy of India before independence in 1947. Uncle Dickie, as he was known in the family, was assassinated by the IRA in August 1979.
It took a couple of days for the couple to confirm a name for their son. This contrasts with the seven days Prince William's parents took to decide upon and announce his chosen forenames.
In a statement, Kensington Palace said: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to announce that they have named their son George Alexander Louis.
"The baby will be known as His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge."
Earlier in the day William, who is on two weeks' paternity leave, and Kate left their Kensington Palace home for the Berkshire village of Bucklebury and the family support of Michael and Carole Middleton, who have already described their grandson as "absolutely beautiful".
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