Matchmaker William

Sep 25, 2006, 13:19 GMT

Britain's Prince William played matchmaker between Princess Beatrice and her new millionaire boyfriend.

The 24-year-old prince met David Clarke, 24, when he was at St Andrews University in Scotland, and decided he was perfect for his 18-year-old cousin.

Beatrice was first introduced to Dave - who is the son of Michael Clarke, a wealthy American who was chief legal counsel at Cadbury Schweppes - at a party for Pierce Brosnan's son Sean this summer.

However, it was at a party a few weeks later that she exchanged numbers with 'Dashing Dave' - who works for Sir Richard Branson's Virgin company.

The Mad Hatter-themed event marked the 21st birthday of Branson's son Sam and was also attended by William and his younger brother Prince Harry.

A friend of the couple told Britain's The Mail on Sunday newspaper: "Dave and William have kept in touch through a close-knit circle of friends. Both attended Sam Branson's party where Dave got on well with Beatrice. They just clicked.

"Dave's a bright, good-looking guy and he gets on really well with Beatrice. He's a high-flyer who will go far, but he shies away from publicity."

The couple were recently spotted in a passionate embrace at London's Cuckoo Club.

(C) BANG Media International