The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were 'deeply saddened' to learn of the death a nurse who was the victim of a hoax call to the hospital at which the Royal mum-to-be was treated recently for acute morning sickness.

Jacintha Saldanha was found at an address near the King Edward VII Hospital in London this morning.

She had worked at the King Edward VII Hospital for more than four years.

St James's Palace said: "Their Royal Highnesses were looked after so wonderfully well at all times by everybody at King Edward VII Hospital, and their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha's family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time."

The hospital said in a statement: "We can confirm the tragic death of a member of our nursing staff, Jacintha Saldanha.

"Jacintha has worked at the King Edward VII Hospital for more than four years. She was an excellent nurse and a well-respected and popular member of staff with all her colleagues.

"We can confirm that Jacintha was recently the victim of a hoax call to the hospital. The hospital has been supporting her at this difficult time."