Prince William was pictured with friend Kate Middleton

The prince was pictured with Miss Middleton at the Klosters skiing resort with his father, brother and friends.

It is the second time Miss Middleton has accompanied the Royals on their annual trip to the Swiss resort.

Charles' fiancee Camilla, who cannot ski, remained in the UK to finalise plans for their wedding on 8 April.

The images of William, 22, with Miss Middleton, were published in the Sun, Daily Mirror, Daily Express and the Daily Mail on Thursday.

The couple, who share a cottage at St Andrew's University, in Fife, Scotland, were photographed together by the paparazzi a year ago during their last trip to Klosters.

The Royals usually pose for photographers once during their winter holiday

This year, photographers managed to secure images despite aides' attempts to make sure the holiday remained private.

The princes later held an official photo call in the village of Monbiel, 2km from the centre of Klosters, after poor weather forced the cancellation of the traditional mountain staging.

William and Harry were pictured alongside their 56-year-old father for the first time officially since his engagement was announced.