The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting a baby in the summer. File picture: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were “deeply saddened” today after a nurse who was duped by hoaxers in a call to the hospital treating pregnant Kate apparently took her own life.

Jacintha Saldanha was found an address near the King Edward VII’s Hospital in London this morning.

She had been the victim of two Australian radio DJs who impersonated the Queen and the Prince of Wales and is thought to have put their call through to another nurse who was duped into giving the DJs a condition update on Kate, who was suffering severe morning sickness at the private hospital.

In a statement St James’s Palace said: “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Jacintha Saldanha.

“Their Royal Highnesses were looked after so wonderfully well at all times by everybody at King Edward VII Hospital, and their thoughts and prayers are with Jacintha Saldanha’s family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time.”

The hospital said in a statement: “We can confirm the tragic death of a member of our nursing staff, Jacintha Saldanha.

“Jacintha has worked at the King Edward VII’s Hospital for more than four years. She was an excellent nurse and a well-respected and popular member of staff with all her colleagues.

“We can confirm that Jacintha was recently the victim of a hoax call to the hospital. The hospital has been supporting her at this difficult time.”

Scotland Yard said the death was not being treated as suspicious.