What time was the gun salute celebrating the royal baby, where did it take place in London and what’s involved?

GUN salutes rang out at 2pm on April 24 to celebrate the birth of Kate and William's third child.

The tradition was held in London to mark the birth of the prince. Here is what you need to know...

What time is the gun salute today?

The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery and The Honourable Artillery Company fired celebratory Royal Salutes at 2pm on April 24, 2018.

Gun salutes are fired to mark a variety of special occasions - including anniversaries and birthdays.

Where in London is the gun salute?

The soldiers, horses and Guns of The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery rode out from Wellington Barracks into Hyde Park for a 41-round salute.

The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), the City of London's Army Reserve regiment, fired a 62-round Gun Salute from The Tower of London.

What's involved in a gun salute?

A basic salute is 21 rounds, fired at ten-second intervals.

But in Hyde Park, a 41 round salute is fired because it is a Royal Park.

The same goes for the Tower of London as it is a Royal Palace - with another 21 added on as it is in the City of London. This means 62 rounds are fired at a firing time of around ten minutes.

Why are gun salutes used?

Royal salutes are fired from various locations in London to mark a variety of occasions including the Queen's birthday and her Coronation day.

The Union flag is hoisted on government buildings while the salute takes place.

Gun salutes are usually fired at midday unless stated otherwise but never on a Sunday.

The tradition of a gun salute first originated in the 14th century when firearms and cannons came into use.