Ballet star pregnant

Darcey Bussell is said to be taking a break from the stage

The Royal Ballet's leading ballerina, Darcey Bussell, is expecting her first baby in July, the Royal Ballet has confirmed.

The famous prima ballerina is giving up in her role as the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Royal Ballet's new production of The Nutcracker.

But she intends to be back on stage by the end of the year.

The 31-year-old star, who is due to give birth in the summer, is married to City banker Angus Forbes.

"My husband Angus and I are delighted with the news, and are looking forward to becoming parents," she said.

Darcey Bussell has a glittering ballet career

The couple, who live in Chelsea, London, are now preparing to use Ms Bussell's break from performing to get the nursery ready for their new arrival.

The Royal Ballet's first soloist Marianele Nunez is taking over as the Sugar Plum Fairy at the Royal Opera House in London's Convent Garden from 13 January.

Dr Stephen Cronin, a senior paediatrician, is quoted as saying: "There's no reason why she shouldn't return to dancing a few weeks after the pregnancy.

"If she has a normal delivery she will be fine, but if she has a Caesarean it might take a few weeks longer."