Royal couple visit Northern Ireland

Hundreds braced the cold Belfast weather on Shrove Tuesday to see bride-to-be Kate Middleton and Prince William.

This was the couple's first visit to Northern Ireland. Smiling for the crowds, they both tried their hands at tossing a pancake outside City Hall.

There had been no pre-visit announcement amid security fears. Armed police officers patrolled the surrounding streets.

The couple met with representatives from Northern Ireland Cancer Trust, then took time to greet well-wishers who had come to see the couple before their wedding on 29 April.

They have pledged to visit all parts of the UK before their wedding day.