Princes become men of their own destiny

London: Prince William spent an evening in a secluded log cabin with his girlfriend Kate Middleton at a royal Scottish hideaway.

The prince and his girlfriend were alone for a "romantic" dinner at the cabin on the Balmoral estate. The two were said to be spending "quality time" together before the prince begins training as an RAF helicopter pilot.

He is to serve seven years in the RAF's search and rescue arm, after spending time with the Household Cavalry and the Royal Navy.

On Sunday it was revealed that he and his brother Prince Harry have set up their own private offices in St James's Palace.

The move, to be officially announced this month, reflects their desire for more independence in managing their royal roles, palace insiders said. Until recently their duties were looked after by their father Prince Charles's office, Clarence House.

In October staff moved into their own rooms in St James's Palace and began reporting directly to the princes for the first time.

The brothers will start using their own headed notepaper shortly, incorporating their own crests. William, 26, and Harry, 24, who appointed their first dedicated spokesman in September, have had a private secretary for several years. There are no plans to recruit more staff at present, aides said.

- Evening Standard