It seems as if a year has just fluttered by, doesn't it?

So it makes sense that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have released two very special photos of royal baby Prince George on his first birthday - busily enjoying at the new 'Sensational Butterflies' exhibit at the Natural History Museum.

In one of two new photographs issued to mark his first birthday today, gorgeous George can be seen gazing intently - from the safety of his mother's lap - at the beautiful butterfly perched on his father's hand.

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The second photograph released by Kensington Palace yesterday shows the enchanted royal family marvelling as several dozen live butterflies hover around them in a magical new shot.

Kate is wearing a £475 ‘Budding Hearts’ tea-dress by designer Suzannah. Although, despite the price tag, it seems as if the hands-on mummy was more than happy to let little George dribble on her shoulder!

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Prince William and the Duchess - fondly known to the public as Kate Middleton - issued a statement thanking members of the public for the hundreds of presents, cards and letters of good wishes they have received since their son’s birth last July.

They said: "We would like to take this opportunity on George’s first birthday to thank everyone over the last year, wherever we have met them, both at home and overseas, for their warm and generous good wishes to George and our family."

A source added to the Mail Online: "Like most new parents they are just in awe of this little man they have created.

"He really is the apple of their eye."

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The couple are reportedly planning to celebrate George’s birthday today with a low-key tea party for family and friends at Kensington Palace.

Grandparents Michael and Carole Middleton will attend, alongside Aunty Pippa and Uncle James, although Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall are in Scotland on official duties.

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However gorgeous George could be treated to a visit from his great-granny, aka the Queen herself.

Staff say they cannot rule out her popping over from Buckingham Palace between meetings to wish her great-grandson a very happy day.

We hope he has an amazing time!

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