Prince Charles has publicly expressed his joy at becoming a grandfather again and also admitted he’s hoping a young princess is on the way!
The Prince, who is already grandfather to one-year-old Prince George, was visiting an industrial estate in Bermondsey, South London, where he greeted assembled well-wishers.
Related: Palace confirms that Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting second child
One member of the public, Corey Johnson, 36, congratulated him on becoming a grandfather, Charles, 65, cheerfully replied: “I am already!
“But it’s wonderful to have another one. I’m happy I’m going to be a grandfather again. I’m looking forward to it – but I hope it will be a girl this time.”
Related: If William and Kate have a girl, she will be Queen
It’s thought that Prince William, 32, also wants a girl. When Duchess Catherine was pregnant with Prince George in early 2013, she told soldiers who she met with at Aldershot Garrison that she wanted a boy but her husband was hoping for a girl.
Keen royal fans can even have a punt on what the gender will be as British bookmakers line up to take bets on both the gender and the possible name of the future royal baby.
Related: Baby Elizabeth or James? Bets already being taken for new royal baby name
Cheeky Prince Harry also had a thing or two to say about the gender of his brother’s future child. “If it’s a girl…I’d love to see him try to cope with that,” Harry told reporters at the Invictus Games this week.
Related: Cheeky Prince Harry welcomes baby news, will now be fifth in line to the throne
Charles is not the first to comment on the royal couple’s exciting announcement, as well as Prince Harry’s comments, Prince William has expressed his excitement saying that they are ‘thrilled’ with the news.
Related: Prince William has previously said he always wanted two children
It was perhaps surprising that Charles said anything at all about William and Catherine’s exciting news as Clarence House officials had previously indicated that it was unlikely Charles would comment on Kate’s pregnancy while it’s still at such an early stage.
Related: Duchess Catherine knew she’d risk severe morning sickness – went ahead anyway
But, grinning from ear-to-ear at the Bermondsey event, he couldn’t resist saying a few words. When another well-wisher, Toyin Owoseje, 26, offered her congratulations, he cheekily replied: “What did I do?” and “It’s not here yet!”
He also added: “No, it’s wonderful. We are very happy. It’s splendid, very exciting.”
Related: ‘Grandpa’ Charles and ‘GaGa’ Camilla
