Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at Wimbledon

(PA)

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived at Wimbledon today - for the best of the Championships so far.

The newlyweds will take their places in the Royal Box to cheer on Britain's great hope Andy Murray battling with tricky Frenchman Richard Gasquet for a place in the quarter finals.

William and Kate's visit to SW19 is a private affair and not to fulfil any royal duties.

The couple arrived amid tight security in the leafy corner of south-west London today.

An increased police presence was visible around the grounds and a Metropolitan Police helicopter patrolled for hours before their arrival.

It is their first time in the Royal Box together.

They will be joined by a host of guests including Sir Mervyn King, Governor of the Bank of England and Billie Jean King, one of the most successful female tennis stars to play the game.

Tim Henman's parents Anthony and Jane are also Royal Box guests today.

William and Kate, who married in April, are long standing tennis fans.

Kate has visited the championships twice before.

In 2007 she attended with a friend to watch Rafael Nadal play Swede Robin Soderling on Court one and in 2008 she visited again.

Last week a letter was displayed at the 125th Championships which the Duchess wrote to tennis bosses thanking them for their hospitality.

In it she thanked them for finding Centre Court tickets for her and assuring her some peace and quiet.

As the royal box guests arrived today thousands of sun drenched fans applauded.

But the heartiest welcome was reserved for the royal couple who were given a standing ovation.

Kate wore a light cream, triple-tier knee-length dress and William wore a dark blue suit with a rose coloured tie.

The retractable roof was partially covered to shade the royals' end of the arena.