Prince William, Kate begin California tour

Prince William and Kate Middleton have arrived in California for their long-awaited tour of the state.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge flew in to Los Angeles yesterday after a successful jaunt around Canada. They were greeted by California governor Jerry Brown and British ambassador to the United States
Sir Nigel Sheinwald, as well as 115 members of the
US press.

"They have had a fantastically successful trip to Canada and they will have a great welcome in California," Sheinwald said upon their arrival.

"They will meet a huge range of people from the governor to people working in the projects of Skid Row. They will get a good snapshot of life in this part of California."

Prince William and Kate were whisked away to the luxurious Beverly Hilton shortly after touchdown to attend Variety's Venture Capital New Media Summit , where a mass of screaming fans awaited their arrival, according to the Daily Mail.

The royal couple later went to a reception at consul-general Barbara Hay's Los Angeles residence and will today participate in a tournament at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club for the benefit of the American Friends of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

Saturday night will see Prince William and Kate rub shoulders with Hollywood's elite at a BAFTA party, while other scheduled stops include a visit to an arts organisation in Skid Row and a meeting with the families of military personnel.