Residents toast royal arrival

Royal fever gripped Jane Winstone retirement village as residents celebrated the birth of the new royal prince.

The residents were celebrating the birth of the Cambridge prince, the first child born to William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The new prince, who was born on July 22, is third in line to the throne.

Around 80 residents gathered for high tea at the retirement village's recreation room yesterday afternoon, where they were treated to bubbly, nibbles, cake - complete with blue and white icing - and live piano music, performed by Heather Bonn.

Many residents had dressed for the occasion in their finest party wear. There was also a "name the baby" competition, with residents asked to choose the most likely name for the young prince, who has not yet been named. James Spencer seemed to be a popular choice.

Jane Winstone's activities coordinator, Sonya Hodge, said most of the residents were very excited by the new arrival. "It means a lot to them. They all remember when William was born, and some of them would remember when Prince Charles was born as well."

Marlene Steele came to the high tea dressed in purple and with a tiara in her hair. She said she was delighted to hear about the new prince because it was "some good news for a change".

"We hear about all the bad things that happen in the world, so it's nice to hear something good. William and Kate are such a lovely couple and they're obviously devoted to each other."

Mrs Steele said it was a good excuse for a get-together for Jane Winstone's residents.

Elva Abbott said she was very happy for William and Kate. "This little baby starts a new family, and it also continues the royal succession in an orderly way."

Mrs Abbott said she'd like to see the new prince named James. The high tea ended with an enthusiastic rendition of God Save The Queen.