NEWS that the Duchess of Sussex is pregnant has been warmly welcomed in the county.

Prince Harry and Meghan made the announcement yesterday when they arrived in Sydney as part of a 16-day tour of Australia and New Zealand.

It comes less than a fortnight after the royal couple made their first joint visit to Sussex.

The baby is due next spring.

Peter Field, the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, welcomed the duke and duchess at Brighton’s Royal Pavilion on Wednesday, October 3.

In response to the announcement he said: “I am sure the whole of Sussex are delighted at the news .

“I know they would want to join me in congratulating both the duke and duchess and sending them our good wishes. I have no doubt all of us hope that Her Royal Highness has a smooth and uncomplicated pregnancy as we eagerly awaiting the birth next spring.”

The Queen and other royal family members were told about the pregnancy on Friday while they gathered in Windsor for Princess Eugenie’s wedding.

Meghan and Harry’s baby will be seventh in line to the throne and will take the title lord or lady.

Brighton and Hove Mayor Dee Simpson said she was thrilled by the news.

She said: “It’s just wonderful to wake up to this news on a Monday morning.

“Obviously we are all very excited for them and, as mayor of the city, I just wish them all the best for the future.

“It was lovely having them visit the city recently and I am sure everyone who came to see them will be so happy for them. What a month we have had.”

Harry and Meghan also visited the Joff youth centre in Roderick Avenue, Peacehaven, to talk about mental health with youngsters and staff.

The couple took part in games and discussions about mental health and shared experiences with those at the youth centre.

Libby King, manager at Joff, said: “We think it is just fantastic news. It is so exciting for them and all of us that met them here at the Joff think they will make amazing parents.”

Ms King said after hearing Meghan talk to the youths, she thought she would be a great mother. She said: “I definitely wouldn’t have guessed that she was pregnant when she came to visit at all but it’s lovely news.”