Pippa Middleton has reportedly signed a six-figure publishing deal to write a guide to party planning.

The younger sister of the Duchess of Cambridge has been the subject of a bidding war by some of Britain's largest publishers for her first book.

It is thought that publisher Michael Joseph, an imprint of Penguin books, signed her up last week to a publishing deal worth £400,000.

Pippa, 28, who is a professional party planner for events company Table Talk, has told friends she will not be employing a ghost writer.

A source told British newspaper The Mail on Sunday: "Pippa says it's a nerve-racking prospect but she is looking forward to the challenge of writing her first book. She had to deliver a synopsis that was sent to a number of publishers under a strict confidentiality agreement. There were some serious offers, but Penguin stumped up the most cash.

"It will be about entertaining and how to throw the perfect party. It's not just about being the perfect hostess - it will also include recipes and information about how to host different types of events.

"Pippa has been sketching out the chapters and has decided to start each one with an amusing anecdote."

The book will reportedly be released in time for Christmas next year.

The Russian ambassador has thanked Prince William for braving a ferocious storm to rescue the crew of a sinking ship.

Two Russian sailors were airlifted to safety by an RAF helicopter co-piloted by the Duke of Cambridge yesterday after their cargo vessel was hit by a 50ft wave in the Irish sea.

A third man was lifted from the water but was later pronounced dead.

Russian ambassador Alexander Yakovenko praised William, 29, in a letter that was posted on his embassy's website.

He wrote: "All day long we were anxiously following the rescue operation searching for Russian seamen from the sunk Swanland vessel.

"We know that you [William] took an active part in the rescue and the two seamen were saved thanks to your selfless effort under the bad weather conditions.

"Let me express to you and your colleagues my deepest gratitude for saving the lives of the Russian citizens."

British singer Cheryl Cole has become hooked on documentaries about America's most violent murders.

The 28-year-old has been watching back-to-back episodes of US TV show The First 48, which follows the first two days of real-life murder probes in the States as detectives try to gather evidence.

Cheryl tweeted: "Its after midnight so hopefully the kiddies will be in bed.. does anyone watch The First 48 on the crime channel??.. It fascinates me..."

According to British newspaper The Sun, recent episodes include a serial killer who butchered six members of his family.