Mazel Tov: a royal baby for Wills and Kate

The Royal Wedding (Photo: AP)

The wait is over. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting their first child. According to St James's Palace: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to announce that the Duchess of Cambridge is expecting a baby".

With no word yet on whether the royal infant will be a boy or a girl, it's perhaps too premature to engage in a "will-they-won't-they" debate over whether they will choose to circumcise their offspring , as was once a royal tradition.

But how did the Jewish communtiy react in 1982, when William was born? Well, as the JC reported on June 25 1982, we were rather excited.

"Sir Immanuel Jakobovits, the Chief Rabbi, and Mr Greville Janner, QC, MP, president of the Board of Deputies, have both sent congratulatory messages to Buckingham Palace on the birth of a son to the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Mr Janner sent a telegram wishing the Royal Family "a hearty mazel tov" on behalf of the Jewish community, while Sir Immanuel extended "heartfelt felicitations” on the birth which gave "boundless joy to millions." The Anglo-Jewish Association and Ajex have also sent greetings for the future well-being of the new prince."