Pippa Middleton's mother was the "mastermind" behind her daughter's engagement.

Pippa Middleton

Pippa Middleton

Carole Middleton has reportedly "hoped for quite some time" that her youngest daughter would get engaged to James Matthews.

A source told the Daily Telegraph newspaper: "This is something she has hoped for quite some time. She appears to be something of a mastermind in making this happen."

Meanwhile, the 32-year-old socialite - who is the sister of Duchess Catherine - is reportedly keen to get married at her parents' Carole and Michael's home in Berkshire, England.

A source revealed the big day will "most likely be held in a marquee in their garden".

And the Duchess of Cambridge and her husband Prince William are "absolutely delighted" by the news of Pippa's engagement.

A spokesperson for the royal couple said at the time: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are absolutely delighted with the news."

Whilst Michael added in a statement: "Carole and I are absolutely thrilled with the news. They make a wonderful couple and we wish them every happiness together."

The news of the couple's engagement was confirmed by the pair in a statement, which read: "Miss Pippa Middleton and Mr James Matthews are delighted to announce they became engaged on Sunday 17th July and plan to marry next year."

And James, who is an heir to the luxurious Eden Rock hotel in St Barths, reportedly requested the permission from Pippa's father before asking for her hand in marriage.

A source said: "James is a traditionalist and very much wanted to do things properly. That meant getting his future father-in-law's consent. Mike and Carole are very happy. They like James and they are sure he will make Pippa very happy.

"He worked very hard from an early age. He's a smart chap but also the sort of bloke you would be proud to call a friend He made a huge amount of cash from hedge funds and some more from the London property market. We're talking millions here and you don't do that by the age of 40 unless you are a sharp cookie. And James is very bright."

Tagged in