July the favourite for William and Kate's wedding

July today emerged as the most likely month Prince William will tie the knot with his bride-to-be Kate Middleton.

As the couple sat down with royal advisers to begin planning their wedding day, bookies revealed they have stopped taking bets on July dates after sources hinted it was one of the strongest possibilities - July 8 being the favourite.

The long-awaited announcement of their engagement yesterday came after nine years of fevered speculation.

Miss Middleton said joining the Royal Family was a "daunting prospect", while the prince said he wanted to give her the best chance to settle in.

A St James's Palace spokesman said:"It's very much their day like any other couple, and they will make the decisions all the way through."

An official date for the wedding has yet to set but it will take place in either spring or summer next year.

Of the other likely dates, April 9 is the sixth anniversary of Charles and Camilla's wedding. In June, the 18th or 25th have been suggested, while William could combine the celebrations with his 29th birthday on June 21.

Brazilian Daniella "Issa" Helayel, is a strong tip to design the wedding dress.

William last night revealed he used his mother Diana, Princess of Wales's engagement ring to propose to his fiancee.