Governor Sir Richard Gozney has quashed rumours of a Royal visit during the Queen's Birthday celebrations.

Rumours have circulated the Island that Prince William was due to arrive ahead of his Royal Navy duties in the Caribbean aboard the frigate HMS Iron Duke.

UK newspaper The Mirror last month claimed the Prince was due to stop off in Bermuda during a mission against drug cartels in the region. A senior military source told The Mirror: "The Caribbean on a warship is an ideal tour as it has operational potential and works diplomatically.

"Local island governors will be very pleased to see a Royal visiting them."

The Governor of Bermuda however, yesterday told The Royal Gazette: "I have heard of no plans for HRH Prince William to visit Bermuda, nor of any plans for a visit by HMS Iron Duke during the time when the UK Press suggest that Prince William may be serving on board."

Prince William, 25, is due to start his two-month secondment with HMS Iron Duke on Monday. The frigate will patrol the Caribbean for drug runners but will also take part in humanitarian relief if a hurricane strikes the region.

Sub-Lieutenant Wales is due to learn basic skills such as navigation, boat handling and sea safety, but will also tour such units as the Royal Marines and Air Fleet Arm, where he will have a chance to fly helicopters.