Royal Tour Baby Rumours Spark Media Frenzy
Speculation is set off by Prince William's apparent suggestion that another royal baby may not be too far off.
Out for a Sunday afternoon spin. Feeling the need for speed, William and Kate hit the Kenyons of Queens Town in the famous white local Shotover Jet. This is the couple's first extended trip to the south Ireland on this tour. It means leaving Prince George behind in Wellington for the night and keep him back. Beyond in the air, the screams both tell you this is the couple enjoying downtime from parenthood. But it's talk of a baby No.2 that has got the media in a frenzy.
It was yesterday while meeting Simply Reed the woman who knitted a shawl for Prince George when he was born that Prince William was reported to have said he might have to make another one soon.
By the morning, in Downing, all the talk was about the possible pitter-patter of tiny feet. Had the Duke insinuated Kate was pregnant? Or just that we wouldn't have to wait too long for a kid brother or sister for Prince George?
It was a telling sip of red wine later at Antargo vineyard that hinted everyone had jumped to the wrong conclusion. In the end, it was a good old-fashioned health and safety briefing prior to boarding the Shotover Jet that finally put the rumor to rest.
It's an NSA safety brief that we have to ask that if anyone pregnant, back injuries or anything else. Admittedly, we think they should tell us. And when I asked that, and there was no answer from anybody, so I thought that would be a no.
For a short time, the media's adrenalin had been running high. In fact, the only ones on the real white local ride turned out to be the proud parents of one.
Paul Harrison, Sky news, in Queens Town.