Kensington Palace has confirmed that the Duchess of Cambridge has given birth to a baby boy.

In a statement released shortly after 1pm, royal representatives said that Kate Middleton “was safely delivered of a son at 1101hrs”.

“The baby weighs 8lbs 7oz,” they added.

Because of recent changes to the laws governing succession, the baby’s sex will make no difference, as boys no longer have precedence over girls.

However, it has already been confirmed that the baby’s title will be HRH Prince of Cambridge – and bookies have released the median odds for the little royal’s name, which are as follows:

• Alice – 4/1
• Arthur – 5/1
• Mary – 11/2
• Victoria – 6/1
• Albert – 9/1
• Jack – 9/1
• Alexandra – 14/1
• Philip – 14/1
• Elizabeth – 16/1
• Fred – 16/1

Unlike most new parents, though, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge cannot just pick a name based on personal preference.

While there are no hard and fast rules in place when it comes to naming a baby, tradition plays a huge part in the British Royal Family, even in the 21st Century.

And, as such, the Cambridges are expected to consider three important elements when choosing a name for their third child.

As royal commentator Richard Fitzpatrick explained to the BBC: “When you choose a name for a royal baby there’s the personal [preference]; there’s the link with the royals past and present; but also you think about the public. 

“You want a name that resonates, a name that’s got family links and is popular.”

It is for this reason that Fitzpatrick thinks the names Victoria or Albert are both the most likely “possible” options.

“There has been a renewal of interest in the Victorian era,” he said.

“And, after the success of Victoria on the small screen, there’s more popular interest in these royals.”

He added: “It’s a chance to pay tribute to one of the great royal romances.”

Of course, the Cambridges would not be the first to pay homage to a great royal romance via a momentous life event: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have opted to hold their wedding at Frogmore House, which was famously purchased as a present by George III for his wife, Queen Charlotte, many years ago.

As noted by the Royal Collections, the marriage of George and Charlotte was very successful compared to their contemporaries, particularly due to the esteem that Charlotte held her new king.

Writing on 26 April 1778, nearly 17 years after their marriage, Charlotte’s affection for George is clear; as she concludes her letter to him: “You will have the benefit by Your voyages to put Spirit in every Body, to be more known by the World, and if Possible more beloved by the People in general.

“That must be the case, but not equal to the love of her who subscribes herself.

“Your very affectionate Friend and Wife Charlotte.”

While we have some idea as to how William and Kate will name their child, it is worth remembering that the names given to royal babies are not usually revealed straight away, and the public is often left guessing for several days. Indeed, the Cambridges themselves famously took two days to announce both George and Charlotte’s names, informing the Queen of their choice beforehand.

However, while we won’t know the name for some time, we will be informed as soon as the royal baby has arrived: after news of the birth has been announced on the official Kensington Palace Twitter and Instagram accounts, a bulletin notice declaring the birth will go on display on an easel in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace.

Utterly obsessed with all things royal baby? Then you need to read this article, and stat.

Image: Getty