Kate Middleton Hampton Court
Kate Middleton speaks to children inside the Magic Garden at Hampton Court Stefan Wermuth/ Reuters

Kate Middleton has announced that there is furry new member of the royal family- a hamster called Marvin. According to People magazine, The Duke of Cambridge confirmed the pitter patter of tiny feet in her household at the opening of the Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace.

She made the revelation while chatting with schoolchildren, telling one of the students that Prince George and Princess Charlotte aren't the only little ones she is looking after. A nine-year-old called Darcey said: " [She] said she had a hamster, and Charlotte really likes it because the whiskers always tickle her face."

During her visit the mother-of-two joined in with the children in the sandpit, and explored the 'dragon's nest' before she unveiled the plaque to officially open the Magic Garden. The Duchess was also shown around the gardens by designer, Robert Myers, who has been working on the venue for six years.

Marvin joins the Duke and Duchess' cocker spaniel Lupo, which they got in Christmas 2011. He stole the spotlight in the Prince George's first official family photo. Since they introduced their canine companion to the world the demand for cocker spaniels have skyrocketed with each puppy selling for up to £1,000.

As the royal family is known to be animal-friendly, he will not be short of company. Queen Elizabeth has owned over 30 corgis during her reign and Prince Charles is also a big fan of Jack Russell terriers. Kate, 33, grew up with two guinea pigs, Salt and Pepper.

Kate Middleton