Prince George's third photo released ahead of foreign tour

Prince William and Kate have released a family photo with their chubby son Prince George, a week ahead of their visit to New Zealand and Australia, their first foreign trip after the royal birth.

The eight-month old, who is third in line to the throne, is the centre of attention in a blue jumper emblazoned with his name in the informal shot taken at Kensington Palace, the royal residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Looking like he is growing fast as he is held by a smiling Duchess of Cambridge, the future king only seems to have eyes for the family's pet cocker spaniel, Lupo, who is held by the Duke.

William and Kate have chosen to release the happy and laid-back image ahead of their tour to New Zealand and Australia from April 7 to 25.

The photograph shows the Cambridges casually dressed as they lean on the sill of an open window at their apartment in London.

The couple moved into the property, which had been the home of Princess Margaret, late last year after it had been refurbished.

Celebrity portrait photographer Jason Bell took the picture and was also the official photographer for George's christening last October.

Bell is renowned for his images of Hollywood stars and rock and pop legends like Sir Paul McCartney, actress Scarlett Johansson and former England footballer David Beckham.

But he has captured a relaxed image of the Cambridges during the photo session held a few weeks ago, Press Association reported.