The Queen's joy at Zara's baby news

The royals prepare to celebrate a new arrival.

When Zara Phillips was spotted with what looked suspiciously like a baby bump at Royal Ascot racecourse in the UK last week, the eyes of royal watchers lit up. And when Mike Tindall, her usually gruff rugby-star hubby, sidled up for an uncharacteristic kiss and cuddle, their public display of affection was a further hint the pair could be expecting the Queen’s third great-grandchild.

Respected royal commentator Bill Coles reveals exclusively to Woman’s Day that the pitter-patter of little feet is imminent for Zara, 31, and Mike, 34. “I can’t confirm she is pregnant, but all the signs are that she is,” he says. “Zara is desperate for a baby.

“Ever since she picked up silver [in the equestrian] at the London Olympics, it’s been – as Mike calls it – all systems go. He’s been taking every supplement you can think of, and she’s taking the business of having a baby very seriously. She’s almost given up booze and is trying out organic food and meditation.” She was spotted leaving hip London club Maihiki in the early hours last week, and onlookers couldn’t help but notice how her heavy puffer-jacket would conveniently hide a growing tum.

Someone who’s equally as happy as Mike and Zara about their plans is the Queen. She is already a great-grandmother to Savannah, 22 months, and Isla, seven months, the daughters of Zara’s brother Peter Phillips. But the promise of a newborn is believed to have boosted the spirits of the 86-year-old monarch, who is reported by one US magazine to be suffering from sciatica, arthritis and a deteriorating heart.