Kate Middleton's parents attend shooting weekend at Balmoral

London, Nov 2 (ANI): Prince William and Kate Middleton are poised to announce their engagement after a marathon eight-year courtship - at least that's what the latest hint suggests.

Middleton's parents have just been guests at a private shooting party on the Queen's Scottish estate - the invitation is the clearest sign yet that the prince and his long-time are set to announce their engagement.

Michael and Carole Middleton spent the weekend with their daughter and the prince at Birkhall, Prince Charles's private residence on the Balmoral estate.

The move is seen as highly symbolic, with former aides suggesting that the middle-class Middleton family were now firmly welcomed within the royal fold.

"It's just a matter of time," said one.

Kate's parents were snapped receiving instructions in shooting, apparently ahead of a day's stalking on the hills above Birkhall.

"That they should be guests at a shooting party should not be underestimated," said one figure.

"This is the Middletons being taught to be able to join the royals at play."

The invitation would have been approved by Prince Charles and known about by the Queen. (ANI)