'Modern man': Prince William's key decision with Princess Kate wins more royal fans

Prince William's family-oriented nature is clear in his decision to pull back on royal duties to look after Princess Kate and their children.

The future King is already a favourite with the public - but exposing his softer side is like to win the empathy of more people, according to royal observer Pauline Maclaran, Professor at Royal Holloway University of London.

Professor Maclaran, author of author of Royal Fever: The British Monarchy in Consumer Culture, told Daily Express US: “The fact that William is at her side in hospital or looking after the kids instead of carrying out royal duties is only likely to gain more affection for him.

“He is showing himself as a very modern man taking on shared responsibilities with his partner.”

The Waleses have faced criticism for putting family first, but according to Prof Maclaran, it doesn’t sway their decision-making.

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The royal expert says: "I don’t think William and Kate have been very bothered by criticisms that they are putting family first.

"This seems a very reasonable thing to do when their kids are young."

She adds: "I have not heard much criticism of this nature and I don’t think it is likely to gain much momentum as they remain hugely popular."

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William has been seen visiting Kate at hospital and doing the school runs.

Kate won't return to her royal engagemetns until after Easter, but in the meantime she's conducting charity work from hospital.

The Princess has been in hospital for nine days and is scheduled to remain for another one to four days and will then continue her recovery at Adelaide Cottage.