WITH the Royal Wedding only weeks away, the Gazette has uncovered more fascinating evidence about Kate Middleton's links to Southall.

Her mother Carole Middleton (nee Goldsmith) was a pupil at what is now called Featherstone High School, as was her grandfather Ron.

The Gazette was able to take a look at the school's admission records and found both Goldsmiths on the register. And it turns out that Kate's mother was a dab hand with a cornet, even going so far as to play in the school's brass band.

School records indicate that she was at the lowers school from 1966, aged 11, and then moved to the upper school in 1967. It is believed she left in 1968, but the paperwork was unclear. At the time she lived in Hartington Road, only a few minutes walk from the school in Montague Waye.

Headteacher Gerry Wadwa said the school was very excited about its links to the future Queen. “We still have our handwritten admissions register from 1966 when Kate's mother Carole Goldsmith joined us and is recorded as student number 6617," he said.

“We are excited about our link to the Royal Wedding and will be raising awareness among our pupils about our royal connection through assemblies and special lessons.”

There are also plans to engage students in learning about the Royal Family and the British constitution through its new found royal link. And the school said it may also focus on the school's history in the area during the 1960s.

Kate Middleton is due to tie the knot with Prince William on April 29.

Clarence Street gets ready to party - see page 2

WITH only weeks until the Royal Wedding, the community in and around Clarence Street in Southall is embracing the area's links to Kate Middleton and Prince William.

The Gazette spent an evening speaking to people to find out how they feel about the event on April 29 and its connection to where they live.

A major street party on Clarence Street, where Kate Middleton's grandparents used to live, is being organised by Ealing Southall MP Virendra Sharma and Ealing Council leader Julian Bell.

Kevin Barrett, who is a regular at local pub The Prince of Wales said: “Good luck to them. I work as a caretaker at Featherstone High School where her mum used to go. I think something like this is very good news for Southall and I'll be drinking to their health on April 29.”

His friend Charles Christy, who lives in the area, said: “I think it's great so long as they make sure they look after the people of Southall. Although I'm an Irishman I've lived here for 40 years and I have a lot of respect for the Royal Family.”

Estate agent Vishal Varma, based in Western Road said: “I know we manage a property in Hartington Road, which is the same road where members of Kate's family used to live. The Asian community has put Southall on the map but this is definitely one more thing that brings positive attention to the area.”

Ajit Singh, producer for community radio station Desi Radio, just round the corner from Clarence Street said: “This wedding and its links to Southall represent a social shift which breaks down barriers.

“Instead of recognising 'divine right' and the powers of divinity, we're having a recognition of the powers of humanity. This is about celebrating Britishness and the spirit of coming together.”

Beverly Micklewright, who lives on Clarence Street, said: “I was surprised when I heard about our street's connection to the Royal Wedding. I know there are plans for a street party here but I won't be around. Not on purpose, though.”

Her husband Owen said: “I don't feel much about it one way or another. I suppose it's good news for the area.”

Clarence Street couple Urmila and Nabin Bulsara said they were looking forward to the wedding and the ensuing party.

Mr Bulsara said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime event so we are very happy to be part of it. It's the sort of thing that will bring all the neighbours on Clarence Street together.”