Royal baby born: Prince George and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are back home with their princess (as world media waits for a name)

Prince William said the family is 'very happy'

(PA)

The Duchess of Cambridge has left hospital after giving birth to a baby girl.

Catherine was admitted to the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington at 6am this morning and delivered a daughter just a few hours later.

The Duke and Duchess emerged from the Lindo Wing just after 6pm with their newborn daughter and left without speaking to reporters.

In other news:

• The world reacts to the news that the Duchess of Cambridge has given birth

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• Twitter is more interested in Kay Burley and Nicholas Witchell than the royal baby

• Charlotte and Alice are still the favourite names

• Everything you (may or may not) need to know about the royal birth

• The wait for the royal baby - in pictures

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The announcement of the birth was made on Twitter by Kensington Palace before a notice declaring the birth was put outside of Buckingham Palace, in following with tradition.

Kensington Palace said: "The baby weighs 8lbs 3oz. The Duke of Cambridge was present for the birth.

"The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry and members of both families have been informed and are delighted with the news.