Latest addition to 'family' creates buzz

The birth of the royal baby has been welcomed much like a new addition to the family for Tauranga pensioners Ruth Pudney and Myra Hall.

The two royalists were delighted to hear of the arrival of a future king early yesterday morning.

"I have been around for a long time and the royal family, it's been around for so long. It's the only thing we've had for all that time," Mrs Pudney said.

She said the Duchess of Cambridge was a "wonderful fit" for the royal family and she was looking forward to seeing the Duke and Duchess's baby.

"I think they are part of our family aren't they?

"Or we are part of theirs," Mrs Pudney said.

Mrs Hall agreed, describing the royal family as an extended family because she always recognised their faces and names.

"They date back so far and we are always interested in their footsteps," Mrs Hall said, adding the arrival of the royal baby was "just wonderful news".

Mrs Hall and Mrs Pudney discussed suitable names, and both agreed on George.

Aspen Rest Home diversional therapist Marilyn Liddington said the news of the baby's arrival created a buzz among residents. "All their lives the royals have been people they've recognised and known.

"They are so much more in our homes in the televisions and magazines these days," she said.

British goods store, Piccadilly Circus' Chrissie Vindriis said the royal baby had been a hot topic among customers.

The store had introduced Royal Baby Specials, offering British goods for a discounted price.

"Everyone's just happy he is here safe and sound," she said.

Royal birthday

Celebrities who share the royal baby's birthday on July 22

• 
  Selena Gomez, 21
• 
  Shawn "Heartbreak Kid" Michaels, 48
• 
  David Spade, 49
• 
  Danny Glover, 67
• 
  William Dafoe, 58
• 
  Rhys Ifans, 46
• 
  Scott Dixon, 33