Security alert ahead of William and Kate's trip to India

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will travel to India at the weekend as security is tightened following a police warning of a possible terror threat.

Punjab police are reported to have issued an alert regarding terrorists who may have crossed into the country.

People have been warned to be vigilant, especially in crowded places, and there are concerns two of the three places the royal couple are set to visit could be the target of a number of Pakistani terrorists.

Mumbai and Delhi, both of which William and Kate will visit during their tour, could be targets as well as Goa, police said, according to media in India.

The couple, who will travel to India and Bhutan, held a reception at Kensington Palace on Wednesday for young people from the two Asian countries living, working or studying in the UK.

Among the guests the royal couple welcomed to their home was British Asian model Neelam Gill who has worked for Burberry and appeared in Vogue magazine.

The model said about Kate: "She told me she loves Indian food and I said she would be fine, and William said he struggles with the spices."

The Duchess paid tribute to India by wearing a dark blue outfit by London-based Indian designer Saloni, while the Duke looked smart in a suit and tie.

William and Kate chatted to their guests about their forthcoming six-day trip, which will be their first to the two countries.

They spoke to India's High Commissioner to the UK Navtej Sarna, other figures representing British and Indian business, the charity sector, key figures within the community, academia, and representatives from the British Asian Trust.

The couple also met Bhutanese and Indian students enrolled on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's Chevening Scholarship Programme, the UK's international awards scheme aimed at developing global leaders.

The Duke told one group that the weather in Mumbai, where they will start their visit next week, will be very hot.

He said: "Mumbai is about 35 degrees - it will be a belter. I've had enough of winter time, I want to get away."

The conversation turned to the recent Twenty20 World Cup cricket tournament hosted by India, which the West Indies won in dramatic style, beating England in the final at the weekend.

The Duke said: "I wish I was there for the last week, for the final - amazing game."

He added: "As much as England lost, the West Indies winning is not bad, they're so passionate."