Online birthday greeting for Prince

Different birthday treats await Prince William and Princess Anne

The world's biggest virtual birthday telegram is among the presents that will greet Prince William when he turns 18 on 21 June.

It is being compiled on the internet and people worldwide are being invited to send a message free of charge.

The birthdays of several members of the royal household will be marked on 21 June with a Windsor Castle party expected to be attended by friends and European cousins.

A Palace spokesman said that Prince William would be too busy studying for exams to attend.

'William staying put'

"Prince William is not expected to pop over," he said.

"He's revising for exams and this is not a party for him."

UK-based internet firm City 2000 is organising the telegram and it expects hundreds of thousands of people to participate.

It was behind last year's virtual telegram, signed by more than 270,000 people, to mark the wedding of Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones.

Prince William: Too busy studying to party

Organisers spokeswoman Rachael Dewis said: "It is very fitting that Prince William, one of the younger royals, should be wished a happy birthday using the most modern form of communication."

Next week's Windsor Castle party will celebrate four generations of the royals, especially the 100th year of the Queen Mother.

It will also pay respects to Princess Margaret, who turns 70 this year, Princess Anne, who marks her half century, and Prince Andrew, who is 40.

A Palace spokesman said: "All of them have big birthdays this year.

"In 1990 they held the Decades Party, when all those members were 10 years younger.

"Fortunately the same members are all able to come to Windsor and celebrate their birthdays again."