There's an indescribable beauty in union
In two beings forming one new being
Entering each other's world
Surrendering each other's selves
Accepting the invitation to be everything to someone else
There is an unparalleled bravery in union
In telling the one you love
The only way that we can truly win
Is if I think of you in everything I do
And honour every decision you faithfully include me in
Love gives union true meaning
It illuminates the path
It wants us to compromise, communicate and laugh
It wants us to elevate
Appreciate without pride
Love is oblivious to the outside
Even with an audience of millions
Even when that love bears immortal significance
All of this is met with cordial indifference
By the two people at the heart of it
Two individuals when they started it
Becoming two halves of one partnership
Such is the beauty of union
Such is the beauty of union.
Good morning and welcome to Royal Windsor.
The big day has finally arrived.
And here on the BBC, you won't miss a moment.
You certainly won't.
But, first things first, thank you to George the Poet
for that wonderful rendition of The Beauty of Union,
which he wrote especially for today.
And George will be back a little later to tell us
about his friendship with Prince Harry, possibly
in rhyming couplets, who knows?
Yes, a beautiful love poem, and of course amid all the grandeur
and the crowds and the excitement, that's why we are here today, to
celebrate the love between His Royal Highness Prince Henry -
otherwise known as Prince Harry - and Ms Meghan Markle,
who at midday, six months after they announced
their engagement, will marry in the beautiful and intimate
setting of St George's Chapel here at Windsor Castle -
a place the Royal Family call home.
Yes indeed, when Her Majesty
says, "home, James," this is where she means.
British kings and queens have been living here
for almost a thousand years, making it the world's
oldest inhabited castle.
As we said, we pretty much think we've got everything
covered here at the BBC -
the ceremony, the carriage procession, the wedding guests,
the fashion, and more.
Please stay with us throughout the day.
But the focus of our - and everyone's - attention
will of course be on the bride and groom.
Prince Harry, who's sixth in line to the throne
and Meghan Markle, American actress and humanitarian campaigner.
So where are the couple of the moment now?
Prince Harry is staying at Coworth Park and yesterday
he and his brother Prince William did a walkabout in Windsor much
to the surprise and delight of the crowds on the Long Walk.
They were delighted. A very good weekend.
And Meghan is staying at the Cliveden House Hotel -
she arrived there yesterday evening with her mother Doria Ragland.
And they both cut a dash. If that was the dress just for going into
the hotel... And both mother of the bride and bride to be looking
incredibly relaxed. Meghan is close to her mother and she will accompany
her daughter today as she travels to Windsor Castle, in a break with
tradition.
tradition. And it was announced yesterday that the Prince of Wales
will then walk the bride down the aisle.
As you might be able to see, there are already huge crowds
gathering here in Windsor.
The doors to the castle grounds were opened a few moments ago,
and throughout the UK and the world, it's estimated that
a staggering 1.9 billion people will be tuning in and watching.
And we want you to take part in our global conversation.
Any street parties happening out there today.
Have you made any Royal Wedding themed food?
Are you getting married today?
Do you know another Harry and Meghan getting married today?
Whatever it is, we want to hear from you, so do share your comments,
photos and videos with us at Bbc One, using
the hashtag RoyalWedding.
Tag BBC One in your pictures on Instagram and Twitter.
And throughout the day we'll be taking a look
at how your celebrations are going.
Now the doors to St George's Chapel - the beautiful
setting for the wedding -
won't be opened until 9:30am.
That's when we'll all get our first glimpse of how it looks.
And that's also when the 646 guests are allowed in to find their seats.
But poised, ready and waiting for that moment, with a wonderful
view of the castle, is our colleague, Huw Edwards.
And it IS a wonderful view - one of the most
iconic in the world - the Round Tower of
Windsor Castle - dominating the landscape for
miles around - it's a view familiar to many
millions across the world - and make no
mistake - today's service is a truly global
event.
A massive global audience focusing on events today.
We have some of the best seats in the house -
from our great position on the roof of the
Guard Room - looking over what's known as
the Lower Ward of Windsor castle.
And this is where those people specially
chosen to be inside the grounds are just
starting to make their way in.
Picnic baskets and blankets there.
It's going to be a memorable day for all of them.
The couple really wanted members of the
public to feel part of the celebrations, so more
than 2,500 people have been invited inside
the grounds today.
Some 1200 have been nominated by Lord Lieutenants across
the country for work in their own communities.
They'll get the chance to see the bride and groom -
and their chapel guests - and we'll be talking to some of them
later.
And on the far side of the Lower Ward is St George's Chapel,
where the doors will open at 9:30 o'clock.
And that's when we'll see, for the first time, what florist
Philippa Craddock and her team have been doing inside.
So, what does the day look like?
Here are some of the key timings for you...
The bride will start her journey to Windsor
Castle, leaving Cliveden House Hotel at 11:10am.
Most of the wedding guests will be seated by 11:15am.
Members of the Royal Family will start arriving
at the Galilee Porch entrance of the Chapel at 11:20am.
Prince Harry and his best man, the Duke of
Cambridge, will arrive at the West Door of the
Chapel at 11:40am.
The moment everyone's waiting for - the bride
will arrive with her bridesmaids and pageboys
just before midday.
Then the service will begin.
So, in just under 20 minutes, the wedding
guests will start to arrive.
Nothing official has been released on the
guest list but we're expecting to see some
of the couple's closest friends from the worlds
of entertainment, sport and music,
as well as people from the charities they support.
And covering all the comings and goings for us
from their prime viewing positions within the
Castle grounds are Anita Rani and Ore Oduba.
Good morning. And we feel honoured to be on the ground on what is going
to be an extraordinary day. We're with 2500 of the luckiest people in
the UK. I will be moving to my position to talk to some of the
friends of Meghan and Harry. And I will talk to some specially invited
guests and asking them what it means to be here. And they will have the
first glimpse of the newly married couple when they come out of Saint
Georges Chapel. A big moment but not as big as seeing that dress. So many
questions to be answered shortly. The biggest mystery in the fashion
world. All will be revealed. And we will also find out how Princess
Beatrice is going to top that hat from the wedding of William and
Kate. That took courage. But more important is the dress.
important is the dress. Jo Elvin is a fashion insider it would be fair
to say. We will look at the fashion throughout the morning but we want
to talk about the wedding dress. Who are the front runners? Well the New
York press have reported that it was Stella McCartney, which would be
surprising because she has not done bridal before. But there has been a
lot of speculation and little solid fact. I think is the price could be
on the way.
on the way. She was wearing that dark navy dress last night. That
could be a clue or it could also mean that it is categorically not
that same designer. Christopher Bailey of debris is still on the
cards.
-- Burberry.
But they've done a good job at keeping it secret.
keeping it secret. The bride and her mother are in Cliveden House.
Has our reporter there, Tina Daheley, spotted the
merest hint of fabric that could give us a vital
clue as the to dress's designers?
Let's find out.
I am keeping my eyes peeled and will report back as soon as I see
anything. I feel so lucky to be here where Meghan and her mother will
depart from in just under two hours. A beautiful day and a beautiful
place. We're surrounded by thousands of acres of National Trust grounds.
The hotel itself sitting just above the river Thames, at the end of this
sleuthing driveway. It was once home to a Prince of Wales. And the estate
later purchased by a very wealthy American. Over the years it has
tipped film stars, politicians, the likes of Winston Churchill. But
today the place where a mother and daughter have just spent a federal
might together before her life changes forever.
-- a final night.
I think this could be the biggest Royal broadcasting event
Royal broadcasting event that Windsor has ever seen. We are
journalists and we are so excited to be here because it is a very
historic event for the UK and also the world. Everywhere I look I see
people outside trying to get the best possible spot. Every nook and
cranny in the town has been rented by the media. We are covering the
Royal Wedding this morning for CBS. We're in the bathroom in the hotel.
This is our home-made setup on top of the bathtub. And the toilet is
just for storage. As French people are so enthusiastic about this
wedding. We are doing a special edition from six o'clock to
midnight. Even though we are French we are really into it. It is beyond
exciting for us especially in Los Angeles with a hometown girl
marrying into the Royal Family. Hockey players get married in Canada
but we still follow what is happening, it still matters. And for
sure they will be watching. Australians have always been
interested in the Royal Family, he -- she is also our head of state,
the Queen. So we will have a barbecue during the day and then
settling to watch. You can hear any language you can imagine from all
over the world. Arabic Portuguese, Spanish. This has turned into one
big television studio. The media everywhere and one of the American
broadcasters has 15 news anchors here to cover it. And at this hotel
the balconies have been overtaken by cameras. And cameras, camera crews,
all on the Long Walk. The world is watching. Around 1.9 billion people
watching around the world. Remarkable.
Remarkable. The hotel is doing very good business!
So the world's press really are here in force,
but with Meghan having been born and brought up
in Los Angeles, interest over there is bonkers.
And unlike our British slightly restrained excitement,
in America they'll no doubt be shrieking and whooping, and the odd
high-five-ing.
Hopefully though Richard Bacon will be able to control
himself for the duration of his report.
Welcome to Santa Monica... Welcome to Los Angeles! The union Jack
colours. This is Meghan's home town. The wedding is a huge event here. It
is 1:15am, and this is a city that does not stay up late, but
everywhere from downtown Los Angeles to Malibu, there are watch parties
happening and this is one of the main ones. As well as the
enthusiasm, people in the union Jack colours, and I'm joined by the
principal of Meghan Markle's primary school. She went there for nine
years. He can't remember every pupil who goes through your school,
Debbie, but Meghan made a real impact. Absolutely. She was
towering, poised, academically advanced. She was giving herself.
Willing to give up free periods and helping teachers with younger
children. She was always involved in community projects, inside and
outside school. A very remarkable young woman. I'm a great believer,
as many people are, the school you go to when you are young, and she
was there from the age of three to 12, the atmosphere, culture, the
teachers you encounter, it has an impact on who you become. How do you
feel, a sense of personal pride, do you feel emotional? I'm very proud
of all the teachers who had a part in Meghan's growth at the Hollywood
schoolhouse. Especially her social studies teacher. But I feel a heart
filled with pride at make them finding her a match and all the
wonderful things that hurt and Prince Harry will do with their
wonderful humanitarian projects. Thank you for being here, stay with
us for the big event and thank you. STUDIO: Thank you, Richard. I'm glad
that there were a couple of people they're not too well refreshed! The
crowds gathering in Windsor for the last five days or so. Really busy,
125,000 people expected in the beautiful town of Windsor today.
And somewhere in amongst the throng on The Long Walk is Alex Jones.
I am delighted to be here among thousands of supporters. The
atmosphere is fantastic and the excitement is tangible. We are
hoping to see a glimpse of Meghan coming past in the car, and the
newlyweds in the carriage this afternoon as they come past and
hopefully give us a wave. People have gone to extraordinary lengths
to get the best view. Chantelle has camped out with her two young
daughters and another baby on board. That's commitment. It is, but we
like the Royal family. I have a connection, my husband is in the
military and is in the Household Cavalry. Did the beast keep you warm
last night? Excellent. We have the fabulous looking Stefanie from
Washington! CHEERING Stefanie, why did you make the
journey? Because it's exciting, Harry is getting married to an
American, and getting married to a black American, and I'm very excited
about that. It has given you a lot of hope. It could be anybody, it
could have been me! And you have a link to Prince Harry as well, don't
you? It is indirectly, but through Invictus. I work for the United
States Army and I had the opportunity to work on the Invictus
Games when he brought it to the United States in 2016. I saw him
work on a daily basis, and I had the opportunity to meet him and work
alongside him. He's amazing. It is like a wedding reception before the
reception. Food and drink and a great atmosphere. We are having a
whale of a time. STUDIO: We are now joined by two Ferry athletic wedding
guests, primed for today, and both involved
involved with the JJ Chalmers, who has served in Afghanistan, and rugby
league player Kevin Sinfield. Excited to be part of this special
day? It is pretty surreal and pretty ridiculous, but a pleasure and
privilege. Exactly the same. Pretty surprised to get an invite, to be
honest, but the weather is fantastic and the supporting crowd is
brilliant. JJ, you have spent a lot of time with him. How is he behind
the camera? I always say he is brilliant on the camera, a lovely
bloke, and he is nicer in real life. It is remarkable considering the
environment he comes from. Look at the fanfare surrounding him, so to
have a normal, functioning human being out there, and a big part of
that comes from his service in the military. I see him as another
captain in the Army. I did the Battle of Britain show with him in
2015. There was a fly-past. There were two injured veterans and him
who were going to go up in the three main planes. In the morning, one of
the planes was not air worthy, and he gave up his seat. It said a lot.
He's a good guy, and I spent a lot of time with him that day. That's
entirely him. To be honest, I haven't seen him do anything for
himself. This is the first time the occasion has been about him but he
has given it to the people. It's really about Meghan! That's true.
I'm sorry about this, but I'm union girl, Kevin. I forgive you. But not
a lot of us know about the Prince's Association with rugby league. It's
still quite fresh just over the last 12 months that he has been a patron.
He's been absolutely fantastic. There was a Sky try event, where he
was around hundreds of kids
was around hundreds of kids playing rugby. He joined in, had a big smile
on his face and was passionate about being there. The second occasion was
with the England men's team before the World Cup last year. He had a
private meeting with us and he was brilliant, passionate about our
sport and our country. Especially with league, you going to those
dressing rooms and you have to know your stuff before you walk in there.
He had clearly done his research. I'm sure in the not too distant
future he will be at some international games. He's a keen
supporter of England's rugby union and rightly so, but to have a
combination of both codes is very special and great for us. You have
both spent time in the military, JJ. How important was that period for
him? The most wonderful thing about being with him, we have had very
similar experiences having ten years in the military together. He
ultimately left perhaps not in terms he wanted to, particularly after his
first tour in Afghanistan. I know through his work with the Invictus
Games, just like me, it is teaching a scratch, it's an opportunity to
get back into the atmosphere and relish being back with the boys.
When we hear him talk about Invictus, it seems so utterly
personal. When he is on the public stage, he imparts something where
you can almost hear and feel the emotion. It's very deep inside him.
The Invictus Games has changed my life in ways I never could have
expected and ultimately it's all down to him. He put together a great
team behind the scenes, but he was the one who said, we are doing this
in eight months' time in 2014 and he drove it with his passion because
ultimately he lives and breathes it. Would it have happened without him,
without his importance? It might have happened in time, but it would
have been too late. The need was there and he drove it. Also the need
to get it right. It needed to be the magic that was Invictus, and nobody
really knew what it was. He could see it before we could, and we were
living in the bubble. Have a great time at the wedding. We can go over
to Huw Edwards to tell us more. Kirsty, thank you. Looking at my
watch, we are within a few minutes of the bells of St George's Chapel
opening. I think this is the moment where we want to take in the scene
to see what has been going on inside St George's Chapel over the last
couple of days. We have spent a couple of days here talking to lots
of people who have been working inside the chapel, who had been
outside. We are familiar with this scene now, a glorious day in
Windsor. Philippa Craddock was the florist chosen by Harry and Meghan
to decorate the chapel itself. Here we have the moment when the South
Door of St George's Chapel is open on this royal wedding day. It's the
moment that lots of people will have been given the signal to come to the
chapel itself and look at the decoration. What Philippa Craddock
and the team have done over the last couple of days is decorate the
chapel with all kinds of locally sourced foliage. It is a flowing and
glorious look, a cascade of flowers and greenery. Lots of roses, blooms,
lily of the valley, foxgloves. Trees like beach and birch have been woven
in as well. That's just one section forming an archway over the South
Door. There's more to come, because elsewhere in St George's Chapel, you
will see that this display is truly on an epic scale. Take a look at
this.
I can't tell you how beautiful it is, and, indeed, the aroma when you
going to the chapel itself, because these roses are glorious. Absolutely
glorious. An explanation of what we're looking at in that section of
the chapel. The chapel is split into two halves, both decorated richly,
one a little more than the other. This is the Nave, the big open space
at the West End of St George's Chapel. The organ screen, with the
casework on each side. Beyond that, the much more intimate and medieval
setting of the Quire. This is where you have the heart, the ritual, the
life of the heraldic nights, the Knights of the Garter, this is where
they hold their service and have their own seats in the Quire. You
have the medieval display of carpentry and banners right in the
heart of this chivalric and heraldic order. Can't really underline in off
how powerful and impressionist creates. And this is the setting for
today's wedding service in Windsor. We are looking up in the Quire,
where the royal family will take their seats, guests on both sides,
taking their seats later. There will be familiar faces on either side,
not just members of the Royal family, but other specially invited
guests. We will not spoil the surprise at this stage but we will
see them arriving in a short while. That is the Quire. And back in the
Nave we have this glorious decoration. I think that will be one
of the prime features of the day. Looking at the window at the far
West End, taking in that scene, one of the biggest medieval windows in
the world. And you have all this floral display and a kind of
free-flowing look to it. Almost trying to blend, if you like, this
medieval, Gothic architecture, with the display is there. I think it has
been done with a touch of genius. Chatting to Philippa Craddock and
the team late last night, I asked them rather naively when they were
wrapping up late last night, and they said it would be five o'clock
in the morning. That's the result. When you see the west door where the
bride will arrive, if anything, that's even more impressive. The
west door just tucked underneath the great medieval west window. All of
that to come. Just a taste of the beauty and glory of St George's
Chapel at Windsor, the scene of today's wedding service. Thank you,
to Huw Edwards. It's intimate and ground at the same time. Quite a
building. Speaking to a lovely couple of ladies on Thursday, Sarah
and Vanessa. That bit where the Royal family would be sitting is
called the Quire. I said how it looked so splendid. And they have
found a special varnish to do the pews with. They had gone round with
a cotton bud, it felt like. Vanessa was doing the carpet. That team has
put the heart and soul into making that place look like that. It is
stunning.
Now, none of us would be here today if, almost
two years ago, Harry and Meghan hadn't first
met on a blind date.
So here's a little reminder of their story.
The fact that I fell in love with Meghan so incredibly quickly
was sort of confirmation to me that all the stars were aligned,
everything was just perfect.
There was this beautiful woman who tripped and fell into my life
and I into her life.
Their paths crossed in 2016 when a mutual friend
suggested a blind date.
Meghan had only one concern.
I had one question, is he nice?
If he wasn't kind, it didn't seem like it would make sense
and so we went and met for a drink.
I was beautifully surprised when I walked into that room
and saw her and there she was, sitting there.
I was like, I really have to up my game here!
I think very quickly we said, what are we doing tomorrow?
We should meet again.
What are we doing tomorrow?
Let's meet again.
Diaries, we need to get our diaries out and find out how we're
going to make this work, because I was off to Africa
for a month, she was working and we said, "Right,
where's the gap?"
And the gap happened to be the perfect place.
I managed to persuade her to come join me in Botswana and we camped
out with each other under the stars and spent five days out
there which was fantastic.
Then we were really by ourselves, which was crucial to me to make sure
we had a chance to get to know each other.
The family's been great.
We've had a really nice time getting to know them and progressively
helping me to feel a part of not just the institution,
but also part of the family.
Harry and Meghan chose the Invictus Games in Toronto
for their first official appearance together and, just two months
later, in Harry's cottage at Kensington Palace,
he popped the question.
It was so sweet and natural and very romantic.
He got on one knee.
The ring is yellow gold and the diamonds either side
are from my mother's jewellery collection to make sure that
she's with us on this crazy journey together.
It's beautiful and he designed it.
It's incredible.
Both of us have passions for wanting to make change, change for good.
One of the first things we spoke about when we met was the different
things we wanted to do in the world.
We hope to try and have as much impact for all of the things we care
about as much as possible.
I am very excited about that.
Whatever we have to tackle, together or individually,
it'll always be us together as a team.
I think she's capable...
So nicely said, isn't it?
Oh, I don't know.
She's capable of anything.
When I watched that interview, I'm not going to do it because we are on
television and that would be terrible.
We're joined now by George the Poet, who
opened the show with a wonderful rendition of
his poem 'The Beauty Of Union', written
especially for us.
Welcome again, George.
You talked about that modern love story in a very ancient place.
How did it feel reading those words in the very
Chapel where the wedding will take place?
It is surreal because it is history and it has a very 21st-century spin
on it. Very honoured to be part of it. We opened the show with that.
That is the first time I have seen it. You should be happy with your
performance. Poets throughout the centuries, perhaps no subject
written about more than love but where do you begin? I had to think
about what it meant to those two individuals getting together and
then to the world because it is an event of international significance.
Love is at the heart of it of course and you need to be respectful and
understanding of what is happening. Did you take advice from anyone or
did you just go away, I mean how long did it take you? The majority
of the work for me is the thinking, a question of my personal experience
and understanding and then just trying to create something. I have
been doing it since the age of 15. And also an interesting aspect to
poetry, we go to poetry for those very intimate times in our lives and
also very public moment. People might not be reading poetry
day-to-day but they might read a poem as a wedding or a funeral
service. It means different things to different people but it is always
there when we try to sum up those important emotions. Completely, it
just gets to the centre of our experience and it can cover such a
range. I just released a new episode of my podcast and it is very
different poetry but at the same time just about that universal
experience. WH Auden said poetry gives voice to the feelings that
people have in their heads that have not always been able to articulate.
It is that universal thing, the universal language.
You're an ambassador for Harry's Sentebale
charity, and so you've had the opportunity to
meet him on several occasions.
How would you describe him?
It was amazing to be with him in 2015. It is all about providing
social support for young people with HIV. The Band of the Irish Guards
making their way up, a splendid fight. It is all pretty
jaw-dropping. To me it feels like an investment of people in their
identity. It is symbolic to so many people around the world. It is
beautiful. Today in particular it seems to be quite
seems to be quite modern, almost moving the Royal Family in whatever
way you want to describe that. Both Harry and Meghan, what they
represent and the things that they have that are important to them and
the character that they have displayed in their public lives,
it's definitely is a step into the future. Do you think it is important
for the Royal Family that we are welcoming in a biracial member of
the Royal Family into the heart of the establishment, is that important
to you? I think it is a very symbolic step, we know that we are
all equal but what it means to other people that might once have thought
that impossible. Thank you, George. So nice to talk to you. And we have
a musical accompaniment.
a musical accompaniment. We asked for your comments on social media
and one said just enjoy every moment. Tina said we're having a
family garden party to celebrate.
family garden party to celebrate. It is the FA Cup final and my daughters
11th wedding anniversary. Some of the guests arriving now. More of
that later on. But that now to the castle grounds.
castle grounds. The guests have come from all corners and we have one
group here representing the West Midlands. Coventry on this site and
Warwickshire with these ladies. Tessa Hayley, you have been here
soaking up Royal fever for a couple of days. It is unbelievable, I do
not even know where to look, so much going on and people everywhere. I am
walking around with my mouth open just staring. And David Beckham
still to come. It could get embarrassing. And tell us about the
Shipton Christmas community lunch. Well we decided that we wanted to do
some things for people who could be on the own on Christmas Day. So it
has been a great success, with all the community involved. We provide a
traditional Christmas dinner. Seems strange to be talking about
Christmas when it is 30 degrees but you do an amazing thing and hope you
have a great day. These guys where the Palace early in the week so they
like to mingle with royalty. But you had the Duke and Duchess visiting
your foundation earlier in the year. It was a really interesting day and
they spoke to young people about the challenges of society and we had
that real connection between their ambitions to help young people and
the work of our charity. You offered them a job? I'm still waiting to
hear, I will be following that up for sure if I get the chance. It is
amazing for everyone to be here and get that invitation but for you it
was a bit uncertain, you are not certain what you had received in the
post. You're speaking about my parking fine X Mac! It just goes to
show the importance of youth work that up and down the UK young people
have many challenges and we can use this opportunity to raise the
profile of investing in young people. And you must be incredibly
proud, you have done this work for 20 years. The all looks fantastic.
Enjoy the day. It is all set up and the ceremony to come.
It is going to come thick and fast, the a list guests. Idris Elba there
arriving and Oprah Winfrey. Just a feast of summer wedding fashion.
Well Oprah Winfrey looks fantastic, and one top milliner said that
Americans were quite conservative with their hats. Earl Spencer and
his wife, not really a summer colour but it is beautiful. Magnificent.
For the ladies the instruction on that invitation that came through
the letterbox was day dress and hat. So what constitutes a day dress? It
is quite a broad term and for a Royal Wedding the protocol is very
covered up and demure. I think for going into the church you need
something covering the arms. So those ladies have all done
themselves proud. Knee-length is generally considered to be the best
option. If the invite says hats, that is just a given. At the last
wedding Samantha Cameron did not wear a hat and everyone was a bit
surprised. But you would not want to be the one to catch the evil eye of
the Queen. And contexts of Wessex when they had their wedding it was
evening gown and never.
No hats.
Something about and destruction like that that tells you that you have to
stand up to the mark. I think that a hat changes the formality of an
outfit. And we do not often get the chance to get dressed up in that way
so I would be embracing it. I also like the clarity of that dress code.
Looking very relaxed and proud is Earl Spencer, his nephew of course
someone he has seen through all kinds of circumstances. Let's talk
about what the bright might be wearing. I cannot wait until we
actually know what it is. Some names in the mix. It seems to have
narrowed down to half a dozen. Narrowed down and then broadened
again.
Another name in the frame is now Claire Waite Keller. She works for
the French fashion house Givenchy. Where are you getting this
information? Just talking to each other in the fashion world, having a
discussion. It is just the best guessing game in the world. I like a
bit of evidence -based speculation. You are a serious journalist.
You are a serious journalist. There is Idris Elba.
is Idris Elba. Military regalia or lounge suits for the guests. And it
seems even the top brass of the upper echelons of the British
establishment have chosen not to wear top hats. Back to the dress and
from what we know about the bride and her fashion sensibilities, any
designer will want to dress Meghan Markle, she makes everything look $1
million. But what does she favour? I think that a general style is
classic with a little twist. How do you marry that up with the
interviews that she is given in the past thing that she would favour a
romantic wedding dress. How you put those things together is intriguing
and I cannot wait to see.
and I cannot wait to see. In my heart of hearts, I would like to see
her possibly where
some Erdem. His style is made for that romantic appeal. He did a show
last September where the inspiration was when Duke Ellington met the
Queen. A lovely royal clue there. He went through the Royal archives for
inspiration. To ask a silly Royal question is there any chance she
could pick a designer you hadn't heard of? Is there any chance she
could go so left-field? I am genuinely expecting some sort of
major surprise. A slightly terrifying possibility at this
point! I will be out there on Google if it is a designer I haven't heard
of. But she is known for looking for the brands and checking them and
giving them that spotlight. That's a good point, Dermot. We are looking
at James Blunt. I'm looking at the lovely woman with James Blunt, what
an absolutely spectacular outfit that she's wearing. A beautiful
fashion feast for those of us interested. I am a sucker for any
yellow. Primrose yellow hat. We can go back to Huw Edwards.
Thank you, Kirsty. We have a terrific view.
There are some exceptional people here today - they're
here because their achievements are being recognised,
and one of them is 9-year-old Ruddi Waterworth-Jones -
who's been invited along with his mum Ali and dad Craig.
They're from Linthwaite in West Yorkshire.
Ali founded Ruddi's Retreat - a charity that provides holidays
for children and their families affected by cancer and other
serious illnesses.
And you are both very warmly welcomed to the studio here. It's a
beautiful view. Before we do anything, I just want to see what
happened when you got the news that you were coming here today. Let's
have a look.
have a look. Pews is invited to... I'm invited to the wedding! -- Ruddi
is invited to... SCREAMING You have stopped screaming now,
that's good. What's it like to be here? It's amazing. I have never
been to a royal place before. It's not a bad place to start. Might as
well start at the top! It's fantastic. I made the point of both
of you, you are being recognised for what you have done. Tell me a little
bit about what the retreat has achieved. Over the last... We
started the charity in 2011, and in the last few years we have helped
around 500 families by giving them a rest that holiday in caravans we
have raised money for. It gets them away from hospital life and gives
them a break. We have done some good things. You have done fantastic
work, and that's why you are here. It's great it's being recognised.
Ruddi, what will you do after this? I will go celebrity spotting! We
will give you a job. Shake hands and enjoy the day. Well done on
everything. Thank you for your time. Enjoy your day. What we will do now,
I think we will go back to Dermot and Kirsty. Ruddi, that is quite the
buttonhole.
Well done to you, sir.
When Meghan and Prince Harry spoke recently about their hopes
for the future, one thing they seemed certain about - aside from
their love for each other - was their desire to
make a difference in the world.
A deep-rooted commitment to charity work featured in both
their lives long before they were a couple.
Prince Harry and Meghan are now in partnership
with the Duke and Duchess of
Cambridge, the 'fab four' are patrons of
the Royal Foundation.
To tell us more about their work is Chief
Executive of The Foundation Lorraine Heggessey,
David Wiseman, who oversees the Armed Forces
Community programmes for
the Foundation, and Colin Dyer, CEO of
WellChild.
All invited to the wedding.
And someone definitely got the hat memo. Very nice. Thank you.
Lorraine, you head up the Royal foundation. They have been
christened the fab four in the press. There is something about the
impact of those relatively young people striding out into the world.
What do you make of the fact Meghan is joining the team? What impact
will she have? It's wonderful she's joining. It's wonderful Prince Harry
is marrying someone is committed to philanthropic work as he is. I think
she will make a big difference. The point of the Royal foundation is we
try to make an impact on difficult social problems, moving the dial and
changing mindsets. We saw that with the heads together mental health
work and the campaigning we had last year and the ongoing mental health
work we are doing now. Just coming into the family, but from what you
have seen of her so far, the press conference eyesore, the energy
struck me in a most. How do you find her? Fantastic energy, and the real
people person, just like the others. When we go on Private visits, we can
sit down and talk to anybody and everybody on their level, getting
under their skin, what they are concerned about, how we can make a
difference and improve their lives. People often wonder, the young
royals are there for the cameras, and that's great, bringing
publicity, but what do they do behind the scenes? So, what does
Harry do behind-the-scenes? I have been working at the Royal foundation
heading up the Armed Forces programme since 2013. I have worked
with the Royal houses on many different programmes, specifically
with Prince Harry on the Endeavour fund and the Invictus Games, and
most recently on his work to do with the military and the mental health
of the Armed Forces community.
of the Armed Forces community. I can tell you he's not there for the
cameras. The amounts of work put in behind-the-scenes, driving
decisions. Prince Harry in particular has a visionary brain, he
can see where he once a product ago and he drives it forward. Colin, how
does Prince Harry fit in with Wellchild? He has worked with us for
ten years. Our main causes to get children out of hospital, getting
them cared for at home, and making sure they have everything they need
for that. Prince Harry bought into that very early on. We have grown a
lot in the last ten years and he has helped us with that and drove us
forward. You met a child that one of your dos, and didn't the child say
he was waiting for the Prince to turn up? You are never sure how
children will react anyway, but Prince Harry comes to the Wellchild
awards every year, meeting hundreds of the families and children, some
of whom are here in the castle. Prince Harry had a whole
conversation with one child who was eight years old. He spent his whole
time looking over his shoulder waiting for the Prince in his crown.
When the conversation ended, he didn't realise until afterwards that
he had been talking to Prince Harry! One of the interesting things is
they are very approachable and members of the public feel like they
can talk to them. I was on the train coming back with Harry and Meghan
from Nottingham. Suddenly the word got around so everybody who was
working on the train was coming to collect rubbish and serve tea, and
they were all chatting to them and congratulating them, commenting on
Meghan's amazing teeth, and telling Prince Harry how well he had done
for himself! We wish you all a wonderful day. Have a great time,
what a day it will be and what a great stay in Windsor. Welcome if
you are joining us on the BBC. Windsor is filling up. We can look
at St George's Chapel, just outside, as the guests arrive. They have got
the golden ticket, 600 odd people filtering into that chapel today for
what will surely be a royal wedding like no other. We have seen a guest
list likes no other. It's not a state occasion, so we are not seeing
politicians or heads of state. We have seen some cracking celebrities
already, and I think there will be more of them. Everybody set for a
superb occasion.
Let's head back out to Alex Jones, who hopefully will surface
somewhere on The Long Walk.
I'm here, and it's so lovely to chat to everybody to see what has
inspired them, captured the imagination and brought them to
Windsor this morning. For some people, it's all about the outfit. I
will attempt to sit in this camping chair... We down! It's all about the
clothes for you three! Prince Harry, what do we expect him to wear? A
shirt and a coat. I hope he is wearing a shirt, it would be awkward
otherwise. And a bowtie. Hopefully we can manage that. What three
things do you expect to see on Meghan's dress? Lace, sleeveless,
and a long veil. I think we can manage that. And these two have
completely transformed since getting married last night. Is it is living
up to your expectations? It's beyond exciting, thrilling. What moment are
you most looking forward to? Waving to them as they go past in the
carriage. Can we have eight world? Look at this! CHEERING
-- can we have a twirl. Some dapper people in St George's Chapel, but I
think the crowd here have turned out pretty well too.
Thank you, Alex. A magnificent site on the Long Walk. We are joined by
the Prince of Lesotho. In 2006 you set up the Sentebale charity with
Prince Harry. Good to see you again. Good to be here. Thank you for
having me here. Tell us about the day, and the fact it brings another
opportunity, given what the couple have done, to talk about the causes
they support, including Sentebale. Sentebale, we set it up in 2006 with
Harry. We were looking at the plight of vulnerable children in Lesotho.
That vulnerability, it spreads from HIV, disability, both physical and
mental. And we have a very unique group of vulnerable children, the
shepherds, the herd boys in Lesotho. That's where our coverage is. The
focus is still on covering the problem, the stigma, through
education and getting young people involved. Having set up Sentebale,
we are now appreciating that we need to empower young people to take a
lead in some interventions. What's the biggest progress you have made
in the last 12 years, do you reckon? It's on the side of adherents of HIV
patients. Young people in Lesotho, because of the stigma, because of
the mystique around the negative aspect of HIV, and taking the drugs,
these young people were falling by the wayside, they were afraid to
take the drugs. But through the Mamohato camps, we have seen a
growth in the number of kids taking the HIV drugs, and they are now
advocates for a more positive and productive society and community.
What does the work tell us, because you know him well, what does it tell
us about Harry's character? Today is a day of great celebration, starting
a new chapter in his life. What can you tell us about the way he clearly
wants to be of service to other people and use the incredible
position of influence he has for the good of others? From the day he
landed in Lesotho, we drove all across the country. At the end of
the initial eight weeks, he said, is this it? He said, no, we can't stop
at this. I have seen, and I think there is a lot we can do together,
that we can do for the children of Lesotho. We are at the point now,
where the Sentebale model, having achieved some great things in
Lesotho, there are still some challenges, but we are now exporting
that model and expanding into Botswana, which is equally HIV
ravaged among adolescents and other vulnerable groups. The best
practice, he has been in the driving seat, driving the passion, driving
us into action. He started this from zero. But he has always had the
vision and the passion. And that passion shows in the response he
gets from the young people when he comes to Lesotho. They all love him.
When I am here, I am not just here on my behalf, I am here for the
children of Lesotho. Lovely to hear you say. A warm message from the
people of Lesotho to Harry and Meghan, when the dust has settled,
they should come to Lesotho, and we will have a jolly good traditional
feast. The invitation has been delivered.
Even other pretty good seat in the wedding service today. It is going
to be wonderful and we are really looking forward to this day.
looking forward to this day. When I was here for the wedding of Prince
William and said give us the heads up but he did not give us enough
time. I could not load up the horses to come out in good time. But it
will be a wonderful day and we wish them the
them the best and in our tradition we wish them buckets of children.
Thank you. Lovely to have you with us. Welcome to the viewers around
the world, people joining us from every corner of the world. We're
just within a couple of hours of the service starting. This is the
glorious scene inside St George's Chapel with the congregation just
getting into place. All those heraldic banners, so rich and
colourful. They really represent centuries of delicious tree. This is
the most prestigious display of heraldry anywhere in the world.
These are the seats with the Knights of the Garter take their place for
the ceremony every April. Also expect of course to see the singers
of St George's Chapel, one of the best in the world. And they will be
performing today. They have been in existence since 1348. A wonderful
tradition and we look forward to that. This is the scene inside this
wonderful Chapel.
wonderful Chapel. Earl Spencer just chatting to guess. And people have
been asked to be in their seats by ten o'clock. But lots still to come.
Looking at the numbers, some 600 people in this congregation. Most of
them in the Nave. 600 people representing friends and family in
many cases. But of course as we heard those charities and
organisations that the couple feel strongly about where they want
people to support and where they will signal their support in the
future. And there we have the award, people gathering in the sunshine for
this lovely day, this very happy day. It could not be better weather.
James Haskel amongst those arriving. They are in for a feast.
They are in for a feast. And I can tell you one thing without giving
away any secrets, the music in the service today is absolutely sublime.
Abroad range of music but a real treat. So we look forward to that as
well. We have Gene -- with Justine the
guests filing in now.
Dan Snow there.
And the first member of the Royal Family, Oprah Winfrey! A real
cross-section of British and international society which makes it
a wedding like no other. Giving us an indication of the type of people
that the couple links with and the kind of things that they're
interested in both personally and socially. So as we watch those
guests coming in we get a real sense of the couple the centre of this
occasion today. Fascinating. And it is joined by one of the guests. I
with Matt from Rhino Conservation Botswana. Prince Harry is a patron
of your charity. What does that mean? A few years ago I got talking
to Harry about the conservation of rhinos and my organisation Rhino
Conservation Botswana and to my surprise he got really interested
and then I discovered that he was a conservationist. And he understood
what it meant to the people of the world to have conservation. So we
got talking about Rhino conservation in our country. And he is quite
hands-on. We have done a number of operations together a he is
particularly interested in the links between people and wildlife. And in
our case the rhinoceros. He has described Botswana as his second
home and we know a couple of weeks into his relationship with Meghan
they were in Botswana together. What makes it such a special place?
Friendly people, wide open spaces, magnificent countryside. And the
leadership that is very pragmatic, very concerned about wildlife. It is
a wonderful place. How do you think Prince Harry will be feeling right
now? I don't know, I can't comment I imagine like anyone on their wedding
day he will be a bit nervous. But he is confident individual and I
imagine he will get through it OK. You look very smart, is this the
first time that you might have worn a suit? You might be right, I'm more
comfortable in my uniform, Rhino conservation man. Have a fantastic
day. That was pretty cool. With us now is and
broadcaster Afua Hirsch. We are outside the oldest inhabited castle
in the world. What difference to the Royal Family do you think Meghan
Markle will make. I think the challenge for the Royal Family is
how to be a family that represents old-fashioned values of inherited
privilege in a society that is about multi colours -- multiculturalism
and equal opportunity. Meghan Markle has become successful through her
own talent and hard work and has used her celebrity to champion
causes that she is passionate about. And she has not shied away from
talking about her mixed heritage and as a woman of mixed heritage myself
was love Drescher in this country entering spaces that have previously
been very white, and Timmy sends a powerful signal that she speaks
about it and that
about it and that you can own your own identity. And for many people
this will be a very symbolic change with her entering into the Royal
Family. Do you think that there is a tension therefore Meghan Markle
because she has spoken about the subject of her own personal struggle
with making peace with her identity. That is inherent privilege in the
Royal Family, that is the very tradition of it. She is about
equality of opportunity. Is that a paradox. So many paradoxes about the
Royal Family and I relate to that, I have felt quite elated by the idea
of inherited privilege but at the same time my own struggles with
identity have made me appreciate the need for cultural continuity. So I
did not relate to the Royal Family but I did relate to the fact that
people dead and the need for that sense of tradition as the world
changes more rapidly than ever. That sense of history that lives on
today. So I think everyone can relate to the needs to have a
tradition you can embrace and I respect the fact that for many
people the Royal Family provide that. And there's no reason to
downplay your identity as you say and embrace essentially your
in-laws. We're sitting amongst the splendour and I am really enjoying
it, do you think that Meghan Markle makes it more difficult for people
who have a tendency to what republicanism to be a Republican
because she represents something distinctly different. Anecdotally I
know many people have been sceptical about the Royal Family but they just
cannot help themselves. They are interested despite all the ideology.
They cannot help it, they feel compelled by her. And look at how
she has invited, other self-made people, Oprah Winfrey, Serena
Williams, people who have real meaning for so many people. And she
is getting a platform to other black talent. The kingdom Gospel Quire
performing. Bishop Curry. She is opening up a space for other black
talent and that is something that people who are not even a fan of the
Royal Family feel passionately about. We could talk about this all
day. You look splendid. Thank you very much. Social media, one saying
my homework is all done and I'm ready. And others saying barbecue
after the service. Prince Harry is a very down to earth guy and Meghan is
very lucky. And please keep those comments coming. Tell us how you are
celebrating the Royal Wedding. Maybe you have some advice about how to
cope with those wedding nerves. Do get in touch.
OK, time to get the very latest from Bride
HQ, also known less covertly as 'Meghan's
hotel', with Tina.
Exactly one hour to go until the absolutely crucial moment but we get
that first glimpse of the dress. No doubt it will be the biggest fashion
moment of the year but what will she be wearing? There have been comings
and goings to and from the hotel. But no clue yet. It is a fiercely
guarded secret but I continued the finishing touches to hair and
make-up are taking place right now inside the hotel. We have not yet
seen the page boys and bridesmaids because they will be meeting her at
St George's Chapel. These last few months must be nerve-racking but for
Meghan Markle the entire world will be watching. So a national occasion
but inside that hotel a mother and
daughter sharing deeply intimate moment, that precious and private
time together before they shortly set of to face the world media. You
can only imagine what is going through her mind right now and how
her mother is feeling as she watches her only child get ready to marry a
prince. The ultimate fairy tale. Let's take a look at the guests as
they filter into St George's Chapel. Our fashion expert Jo Elvin is here.
What do you make of these pictures? Everyone looking fantastic and I
love all the colour that we are seeing. That meant green. A
beautiful spring day and I think the wedding is a perfect excuse to bring
out the colour. I expected to see a lot more pastel colours. But we have
seen a lot of bold colour. I think we have
we have those jewel tones coming through.
through. That is something amazing. That is a wonderful outfit. I have
seen some sensational headgear. Spotting any trends? Well what I'm
noticing the are either
noticing the are either going big or very tiny.
very tiny. Not so many fascinators. There's Chelsy Davy looking rather
thoughtful as she sits in Saint Georges Chapel. And that is a great
cat. I'm guessing Philip Tracey but yes, absolutely gorgeous. And again
that kind of Windsor town. And that is
settling a hat.
We were rather cheekily referring to Beatrice and Eugenie's hats at the
Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding, but I think that is even
better. I really want Beatrice and Eugenie to push the boat out even
more and own it. Hats can be difficult to wear? Someone like me,
you just look old. Paper is wearing a British brands, a very pared down,
ultimate capsule wardrobe.
ultimate capsule wardrobe. -- Pippa is wearing. And The Fold,, they like
to say that they are British designed and British made. Was that
Carole Middleton? Just sneaked out of you. -- out of view. She looks
fantastic and pastels, I remember her baby blue in caves and William's
wedding. The person shaking her hand worked at Manchester United and then
went on to become head of communications to the boys at St
James's Palace. He was known to throw down a ring of steel when
needed. He was instrumental in getting Harry to Lesotho. He is
relaxed and has moved on, he does not have to deal with the backroom
shenanigans. A day of celebration for him.
It is a splendid day in Windsor at St George's Chapel. Welcome if you
are joining us on BBC One. We will have the ceremony at midday. It
could not be a better day. Fortune is smiling on the bride and groom
with this weather. Are we going to look at some
pictures, Dermot? Yes, some messages, finding out how
you are celebrating. This is Moses, my seven-year-old son, his drawing
of the royal couple but he did at school. Nice work, Moses! He will
celebrate watching it on TV while
school. Nice work, Moses! He will celebrate watching it on TV while
decorating crown biscuits.
decorating crown biscuits. I like these masks! Look at that! A very
happy spaniel! Look at the little fella!
Anita Rani has managed to colour a wedding guest before she takes as to
the chapel. The smuggler has managed to colour a wedding guest.
Sir Clive and Lady Jayne Woodward, what an amazing day. You have quite
a strong relationship with Prince Harry because of his love for rugby?
He loves rugby, we first met him when he was 13, he came to
Twickenham, they had him in the Royal box. He was wearing his seat.
He did not look very happy and we change the whole routine. We gave
him six tickets to bring his friends, sat in the crowd with his
rugby shirts and hats. He would always come to the changing room
afterwards, the players loved him. He has been a big fan ever since.
Did Jonny Wilkinson give him a rugby top? He still wears it now, I don't
if he has ever watched it excavation Markey said, look what I have got!
-- I don't know if he has ever washed it! He said, look what I have
got. He's still wears its now. Lady Jayne
got. He's still wears its now. Lady Jayne, you through legendary parties
in the car park? About it was a way of looking after the wives and
girlfriends and parents, -- it was a way of looking after the wives and
girlfriends and parents, Harry is to come, mingle, get stuck in, hand
around the cakes, pastries and champagne, we would watch the game.
He started coming in 98. It was fantastic support for us.
Tell us about baking for Prince Harry. I am a dreadful baker, every
now and then I had to go to school to see him, take tickets and do
things, so I would take cakes for him and his friends. Whether they
hate them or not... They were lovely cakes. What's cakes were they?
Sponge cakes, it is about all I can do. How proud are you feeling today?
Bursting. Really proud, I have seen him grow up since a young boy. You
see the welcome today, he looks really happy. That is what you want.
To our point of view, he has been a massive support on the rugby side, a
great guy, delighted to be here and really happy for him. Wonderful to
see him so happy, we wish them the best. And you both look gorgeous,
thank you so much for speaking to me.
STUDIO: Thanks to Sir Clive and Lady Woodward. Guests still arriving in
the wonderful sunshine at St George's Chapel in Windsor. We have
seen the chapel filling up pretty quickly. Earl Spencer chatting to
some of the guests in the Quire. We have at least 200 or 300 people in
the chapel. My BBC colleague Dan Snow is there, the broadcaster, and
his wife. At this point, I wonder what the Navy is looking like. It is
about half full at the moment. -- I wonder what the Nave is looking
like. Quite a few people still to arrive. Over the past five, ten
minutes or so, some of those people have been associated with Prince
Harry in the past, friends of the family, some have served with him in
the Armed Forces. Looking at these images with me as somebody who knows
Prince Harry and William well, their private secretary for 80 years, a
role he left in 2013, Jamie Oliver bigoted. -- Jamie Loeb the
Pinkerton.
-- He is Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton and he's with
me now.
Jamie, you've watched Harry grow into a young
man in the full view of the public.
The transition must be very satisfying? For me it is a
culmination of what has been a great journey for Prince Harry. He was
always very special. I don't mean that inequality away, just a very
good guy, actually. -- I don't mean that in a courtly way. He had great
potential, it is great to see that come to fruition on this happy day.
I think the partnership is unbelievable, I think it is a
wonderful modern coming together. With Harry and his way of doing
things, it's really means they will be able to do great things together,
actually. You are looking at more people arriving, I am just thinking,
what are your thoughts on the mix of people here today? What does it tell
us about them? It reflects the eclectic nature of Prince Harry and
that he is primarily interested in people. What you are seeing is
nothing less than the mix of what he has always been fascinated by,
people. The circle of friends is interesting for us to see, it is not
obvious to the public very often where the circle of friends is and
what friends there. Describe the friendships, how do they work out?
It is fairly similar to anybody in that you lay up your friendships as
you go through life. It is a very different life to most of us which
Prince Harry has had, but it is school friends, Army friends. The
Army has played a huge part in his life. He has been in more than one
regiment. He has friends from the Household Cavalry, the Army Air
Corps, and his friends from his charitable work and his work as a
member of the Royal family. As we know, the best man is the brother,
William. There was a little dig, saying revenge would be sweet or
some such line, in a playful way. How do you think that'll work out?
What is a partnership like? One of the reasons that we are very lucky
in this country, and I do not wish to sound sycophantic, they are both
really, really good guys. They both come at the problem from completely
opposite angles, problem or opportunity, whatever you want to
call it. They are entirely complimentary of each other, they
always have been. You have seen them do a lot of things together over the
years. They are very close but they have that very healthy sibling
rivalry, they take the Mickey out of each other. Marcus Mumford on his
way, and Carey Mulligan, his wife, on the way to St George's Chapel.
One of a range of celebrities and entertainers. Again, Jamie, just to
reflect what we said earlier, and there we have the chief executive of
the Royal foundation, and there we have possibly one of the biggest
names, George and Amal Clooney, telling us something not just about
celebrity but about the fact that this is a couple engaged in
campaigning, in saying something? It is. Right back to the foundation of
his charity in Lesotho, you have probably already heard about this,
it is amazing, coming across -year-old boy, man, whatever, who
had such a drive. This is a reflection of it. -- coming across a
21-year-old boy, man, whatever. And we have the beckons, a reflection of
the status and scope of this congregation. -- and we have the
Bekhs. The Clooneys are basking in the sunshine and, dare I say, the
admiration and the applause. And the Beckhams are clearly having a great
time. Let's join Dermott and Kirsty. George and Amal Clooney, you really
can't underestimate the sheer star wattage. Is somebody lighting them?!
They are shining. I will take a punt and I will say that I think Amal
Clooney is wearing Emilio Hickstead, I am probably entirely wrong and we
will speak to Jon Wells on about that. If you are right, that is so
impressive. -- we will speak to Jo Elvin. Somebody was having a snap
with David Beckham. Victoria is wearing a very elegant deep blue
dress and a hat with a veil, I imagine her seamstresses have been
very busy. Just before, we saw Marcus Mumford and Carey Mulligan. I
admire George for many reasons, but one of them is that he is walking
very slowly, because he knows that Amal is wearing heels. It takes a
bit of time to negotiate these cobbled! Where the guests are
dropped off and walk down, it has a significant gradient for heels. All
I could think about is that my wife would not be happy. Amal Clooney is
an accomplished human rights lawyer, heels on cobbles is the least of her
worries. That is Tom Bradbury of ITN, we have been reading recently
he has been having sleep problems that you looks like he has had a
good night's sleep last night. Jonny Wilkinson and his wife, with a
lovely bumper under her beautiful lace dress. -- with a lovely bump.
And waiting for the crowds, what they have been waiting for. It seems
like 10:30am is the time to show up to the wedding! Do we want to be
before or after George and Amal Clooney?! Let's go to Anita Rani.
I am with the chief executive of the Diana Award. You are at Harry and
Meghan's wedding. Somebody pinch me, it is so exciting, the weather is
great. It is such an honour on behalf of everyone at The Diana
Reward, we are so honoured to be here. Just incredible.
here. Just incredible. -- at The Diana Award. What a spotlight on
bringing charities in and bringing Princess Diana into the celebration,
just incredible. How many qualities does Prince Harry share with his
mother? One of the things we say at The Diana Award is Princess Diana is
remembered for compassion, kindness and service and that is how we would
describe both Prince Harry Prince William. This wedding just
demonstrates how much service is important and how mature manner
Terry work is important. Bring it on, we're very excited. It says so
much about them that they had said to everybody, just donate to
charities and they have invited you all year. This will be fantastic
going forward? They are both a powerful good. Each of them
individually is very ingrained in humanitarian work, together they are
a force for good. This is huge news. One of the things I was saying
yesterday is I see Meghan redefining what. The Princess is not simply
about golden sandals or glass ceilings, it is about the service,
people, compassion and empathy, that is what excites me. How many people
have you brought? Ten. You are wearing a design by one of the young
people? One of them was part of my styling team, but my dress was
designed by a fabulous lady, she has done my hat and stress. It has been
incredible. Huge thank you to everyone. One of the things I really
wanted to do was in the ethos of The Diana Award, allow young people to
shine. Here with me, they were very much involved in thinking about the
outfits and what it meant. It has been incredible.
been incredible. You look fantastic and have an amazing day.
And those beautiful flowers have been done by Philippa Craddock and
13. The whole of St George's Chapel, already a magnificent building but
it has come alive today with those guests full of good cheer in this
late spring sunshine. It would be nice if Victoria Beckham would
smile, anything could happen but George Clooney absolutely beaming.
There he is in the Quire. We have the greater part of the building
which is Nave and then the Quire. And there is Nicholas Jones. My old
man. I'm sitting here working and he is doing that. And there is one of
my daughters.
my daughters. Look at that pocket square. Did you do that?
square. Did you do that? What a date for my daughter, Freya, first time
she's ever worn a hat. It is a fascinating scene.
fascinating scene. I have to say watching all this what is
fascinating is what people are wearing but also the social mix. And
as we heard it is not just about Golden slippers and privilege but it
is about a coming together of the worlds of these two people who are
in love. And in the guests we have the world of high society, show
business, charity, movie stars, they are all there. We have never seen a
wedding like this before in the Royal Family. There is of course
that sense of privilege with some of the guests and like you said we have
famous sports guys, mutual friends of the couple, Hollywood stars. We
had the state occasion in 2011 which was incredible but not having both
politicians and heads of state seems to make everything just a bit more
relaxed and friendly. In many ways it is the proper home of the Royal
Family as they see it. Ore has been catching up with more guests.
What is exciting about this wedding is the welcoming of Meghan Markle
and her family within the Royal Family. Leonora, you have already
met Meghan Markle. What was that like? Amazing, she's so funny and
beautiful and she just has an amazing personality. She came to
visit you at your school is not an academy but then she came back, tell
us why. She came with Harry and I asked her to promise she would come
back and she did come back in less than six weeks. That is incredible,
future royalty coming to your school. The Deputy principal is here
as well, incredible to be here at this event but having been up and
close with these royal couple, it must've been amazing for the school.
So inspirational for all the students and they chatted to a lot
of them and gave them words of advice, it was lovely. And I'm
hearing that their much dashed not much of a fan of the surprise visit.
Leonora had a couple of surprise visits. Harry Kane on his own and
that was a surprise, a lot of screaming from the girls as you can
imagine. How lovely to have them visit. And I do not think I have
seen better headwear today. Enjoy the day. Thank you very much.
Yesterday we were all captivated, maybe just speaking for
maybe just speaking for myself, by this
this polo player, Nacho. He made quite the impression and there he is
with his wife, and she looks absolutely ravishing. That's
beautiful hat. And there is St George 's happen.
Well as soon as they announced their engagement Harry and Meghan went out
around the UK. They went to represent radio in Brixton in
London.
Their second official visit as a couple was to
Reprezent Radio, a station in Brixton in South
London where they were lucky enough to meet
Munya Chawawa and Henrietta Kwushue, who
join us now.
When it was first announced we could not believe that they were coming to
Brixton, everyone was shocked but almost immediately it had a very
inclusive feeling. And that is what we're all about. So they had no
connections with the radio station in any way. When they came they
really started to explore. Meghan had done her research and she knew a
little bit about us. Exploring all the work that we do with schools and
mental health. It sends a huge message that they chose you as their
second visit, their first visit the Terrence Higgins Trust. What was
that like to meet them? They were so lovely, it was almost like meeting
an old friend. They were very lovely and again Meghan knew everything
about us without us even having to say which was amazing. She came up
with facts like we train 400 people every year. And for her to do that
just shows that she really cares about young people and the work we
do at represent radio. You meet a lot of people as we do in our
business and you can easily tell the difference between someone who is
professionally nice and moving on and someone who seems to be engaged.
But you felt that they were genuinely interested. Absolutely,
the first time I spoke to Prince Harry he was ready to listen to what
we had to say and he was really inquisitive because initially he
thought it was a radio station that then we do all this stuff in schools
with mental health and that immediately took his attention.
Looking at the backdrop of charity work but they have both done, it is
much more than a radio station. When we see Joss Stone speaking of music,
normally she has bare feet, flowing hair. But not today. She has made
quite a considerable effort, looking beautiful. We know that she's
friends with Harry, we have seen them together on many occasions. And
here she is today. What impact do think it has on young people Brixton
for Meghan and Harry to visit? I think it was quite important for
them to come because it shows they really care about what we do and
what we get up to on a day-to-day basis. As a radio station we have
2000 unsigned artists and it is really important for them. What has
happened since that visit? It has been crazy, the day after I went
down and everyone was asking about them. But it was really good because
it's on a big light on the work we do outside radio as well. I'm
interested in what you have to say on this, is it important that the
Royal Family is welcome someone whose biracial? For our generation
things like equality and inclusivity and love in all of its forms is
normal for us, that is how it should be. But with the things happening in
the last couple of years there was a big question about whether it is
actually the norm any war with Brexit. But I think this is a
massive thumbs up from the top, that we're going exactly we need to be
going. Such an interesting answer, thank you so much.
Here we are with that fantastic view. Lots of guests have been
arriving.
I'd like to welcome royal correspondent for
Hello Magazine, Emily Nash.
What you make of this event in terms of who is here. It is a meeting of
royalty and Hollywood royalty today, a lot of big names, George Clooney,
David and Victoria Beckham. But you also have other people, unsung
heroes if you like, friends of the bride and groom with brilliant
stories to tell. People like Dean Stott who just smashed the cycling
record. Looking at the congregation, it is pretty packed. Most of the
main guests have arrived. When we see later on Meghan arriving and
those ten bridesmaids and page boys, in that group, what do you mean
about selection. The children who are close to them, Prince George of
course and then says Charlotte but also children of their closest
friends. Three children of Jessica and then Mulroney. And some
godchildren as well. Some of the mothers in the mix as well just to
get them in position. Looking at the service, do you expect the content
and shape of the service to tell them that right to tell us something
about them, are they going to make a statement with that in terms of how
modern it is. I think it will be quite relaxed by the standards of
royal weddings but you still have the formalities, the National anthem
of course. But you have this gospel Quire singing any king, it is going
to be great fun. At this stage when we go through the service, the music
of course fantastic and we look at the range of people here. Then I'm
thinking you know what, this is not a bad case to be. Lovely to be
inside the chapel but chatting to people earlier on, many of the
people here in this Lower Ward are part of the community that lives
within the castle itself. And they are amongst the most excited at all.
They are hosting a party and there is this festival feeling.
Glastonbury
Glastonbury without the mud and people really enjoying the
spectacle. A few minutes to midday when the bride arrives just before
the service starts, what are your thoughts on what we might see in
terms of the wedding dress because clearly speculation is pretty
intense. Whatever I say now I could be setting myself up for a big fall
for the Stella McCartney you think would be a great choice, she has all
those ethical credentials. Simple, elegant style. Ralph & Russo still
in the mix but we are also hearing other names perhaps less expected.
Clare Waight Keller in the mix. So we will not know until the door
opens. It will be a huge moment. Well early on
Well early on we had Prince Seisso, he is sitting on the same side as
some of those other guests including George Clooney and he's there are of
course because he played such a big part in setting up the charity that
Harry has given so much time and effort towards. Sentebale. Some
guests arriving and I just thank you for joining us. Enjoy it and we will
see what happens at two minutes to midday. We look forward to that.
Well this is fascinating, and within the remit of fashion because it is
to do with adornment. Cleveland company made those wedding rings.
Welsh Gold is expected gift advice Majesty the Queen. But Prince Harry
will wear a platinum band with textured finish. We know that
William does not wear a wedding ring, I think the Prince of Wales
wears a signet ring. That was not the tradition previously. And there
Elton John.
And David Furnish, sporting a beard and looking splendid. And James
Blunt and his wife. She is wearing Valentino. Jo Elvin, you have kept a
close eye on the fashion of the guests. I took a complete punt, I
looked at Amal Clooney and there is a fantastic British designer called
Emilia Wickstead. It has her classic look, but it is in fact a Stella
McCartney. I only know that because I was told. I would have put my
hands on that because of you! Dermott, if you say it with
confidence, you can get away with a lot. -- I would have put my house on
matter. They already think that is the outfits of the day, apart from
the wedding dress! Let's take about the Meghan effect. Is it a real
thing? When they got engaged, which is when we first clapped eyes on
them properly and officially as a couple, they came out into the
garden at Kensington Palace, she was wearing a very distinctive white
coats. The brand has renamed that the Meghan coat in honour of the
Meghan effect, which is so real it is quite terrifying for lots of
brands when they cannot keep up with the demand. They ended up with a six
month waiting list for that code. Meghan is one step ahead of us all,
she owns it in an assortment of colours. You can get it but there is
a waiting list. It is about £450, it is a reasonable -ish entry points
for a coat if you want the Markles sparkle. The championing of small
brands with Kate and Meghan can make or break a business? I admire her
obvious thoughtfulness, she has championed a small Scottish Bragg
band
band -- Scottish bag brand, which funds vaccines for children with
every bag they sell. The fashion business is a multi-billion pound
business for Britain, we are very, very good at it. It is bigger than
the car industry. When these small brands are taken by Meghan and she
wears a pair of Welsh genes nobody has heard of, how does a company
deal with the sudden increased traffic on their website, if they
even have one? Brands are having to navigate that as it happens. That
denim brand started in a small town in what was an abandoned jeans
factory that used to manufacture for big brands. They decided to bring
this brands back to the town. It was when Meghan wore the genes, they had
to move premises. You are talking about jobs? Absolutely. We were
looking at Amal just before in a beautiful Coleman is mustered dress
designed by Stella McCartney.
designed by Stella McCartney. Can anybody but Amal where that colour?
It is beautiful against her dark hair. Stella McCartney is an
interesting brand to choose, not just because she knows how to rock
it but she is very interested in ethical fashion. Look at the detail
on the back. Is stunning. People are speculating it is a very good match
for Meghan and her ethical principles. That is absolutely
gorgeous. I don't think she needs to get changed for the evening, did
she? It is a good day tonight transition.
transition. -- day tonight. You spoke to me last night, we were
doing a little preview and use that there was a rumour that Stella
McCartney could be designing the wedding dress. That could be an
interesting choice because it is probably the biggest environmentally
conscious fashion brand? What is big for Stella is being totally against
animal cruelty, so there is no leather or fur, everything is
man-made. It is hugely important to her and her family. Meghan puts lots
of consideration into her fashion choices. On that level it makes
sense. We are seeing some wonderful pictures of insights and George's
Chapel. We are seeing the guests. There is Jess Stone. Surrounded by
these wonderful flowers that have been done by Philip Kerr -- Philippa
Craddock. We are talking about the outfits, I think they are
jaw-dropping. What a feast for the eyes. Aid should be a spectacle. It
is an amazingly beautiful spring day. -- it should be a spectacle.
There is James Corden and his wife Jools, the star of Carpool Karaoke
and many other things. Hasn't he done well? These are some of the
actresses from Suits. Goodness me, they are done up to meet the band!
When Meghan was starting a little show, did you imagine that they
would ever ended here?! Look at those outfits. That almost looks
like Ralph and Rousseau. Very day, very structured, and then quite
dramatic with the orange. Almost like evening, sleeping gear. Meghan
is a fan of a cape. She has won Stella McCartney before. For all of
the 2000 people, especially invited to be inside the walls of Windsor
Castle today, they have had a wonderful spectacle.
wonderful spectacle. James and Save, she used to work for Save the
Children but now has three children of her own. --
of her own. -- James and fares. And his producer and long-time partner
Ben Winston is there as well. And I would like to thank all of our
guests today for putting in all the effort. This does not happen by
accident, these outfits take a lot of time, Jo Elvin? Particularly when
there is a hat, you have to start around the hat and build around it.
Did you see that beautiful flowing dress, it was rather gorgeous and
against the trend, there seems to be a lot of body con. Is that Sarah
Rafferty? Her Suits co-star, looking splendid. Talk about bell sleeves? I
love a dramatic sleeve. I can't imagine she will be eating much but
it looks stunning. Rick Hoffman is in French. That is Ben Winston and
his wife Mary, Ben is James' long-time partner. Rick Hoffman is
one of the closest members of the Suits cast to Meghan.
Suits cast to Meghan. The Suits co-stars are coming thick and fast.
Loving the cold shoulder on that green dress. A peekaboo shoulder.
Sarah Rafferty, not a hair out of place. A gorgeous embellished
detail. Victoria Beckham has been among quite a few women choosing
dark navy. It can be seen as quite a safe colour, but when you have
embellishments and a net with the net, it can be quite dramatic. And
if you wear a smile with the... Victoria did not!
Looking splendid and his top hat, Mr Webster, a slightly chimney pot top
hat. Not many top hats. I think his is the only one. The Dell he has
dusted it off.
dusted it off. -- he has dusted it off. Patrick J Adams plays the love
interest on Suits, when Harry and Meghan got engaged he sent a lovely
tweet, all it said was I thought she was just popping out for milk!
He was also asked what was it like to kiss Meghan Markle now she is
engaged to Harry, he said just like it was before, it was a screen kiss.
We are seeing Serena Williams, one of the greatest female tennis
players ever to grace a court. And, of course, very recently returned to
the court after giving birth to her first child.
first child. Her husbands Alexis is co-founder of a news website. She
just put on Instagrammed just going to my friend's wedding. No big deal.
600 odd guests, and there is Serena
to my friend's wedding. No big deal. 600 odd guests, and there is Serena,
I really like her hats. Are you seeing trends? I love those
structured, sculpted hat. We mocked the whole Princess Eugenie Beatrice,
perhaps they were the trailblazers. Jo Elvin, what do you make as a
fashion expert about what Serena Williams has chosen? I love the
structured, chic tailoring. It is a body con dress which feels really
flattering and quite easy to wear. I guess something like a Roland, or
maybe even their friend Misha. The guests being treated as they make
their way into St George's Chapel. -- being greeted. The ceremony will
start in an hour and five minutes, at midday. We will go to Anita. She
is with another very lucky wedding guest. I am with the chief Executive
of a charity from India, one of the selected charities that Harry and
Meghan have asked people to donate to. I love that you are rocking a
sari. We have to represent India. Meghan visited your charity, tell me
about impact? Meghan was so sincere and an intellectual in this field of
women's health and women empowerment. A lot of the
conversations that we had were along the lines of what do we do next now
that we know what the problems are with menstrual hygiene in India. It
was a very sincere, grounded conversation. She is very
approachable and friendly to talk to, she was willing to do anything
we wanted. We wanted to drape her in a sari, she wore the sari, the bindi
and all of the traditional Indian things. That has been passed around
every Indian household. She looks gorgeous and a bit Indian, which we
love. Are you alone today? I am with several women, two of them are from
the slums of Mumbai and have never been on an aeroplane before. It has
been a dream come true for them. I am really happy that it is such a
special occasion and Meghan Markle has made that possible. They have
flown to the very first time, their impression of the UK will be
Windsor? Exactly, all the greenery and the cleanliness and the
incredible people. What an honour to be one of the seven charities that
Harry and Meghan have asked people to donate to, what does that mean
for Myna Mahila? As being a very small organisation, such support
that comes on early on helps us to grow exponentially and think bigger.
We are thinking about expanding to ten more women, now 100 more women,
just because we have built the credibility through this support.
That is really important for the morale of our women, for them to
perceive and see themselves in the papers and feel like what they are
doing is really important and has been recognised. And how do you
feel, about to go to the royal wedding? Really honoured and super
excited, it is once-in-a-lifetime and I cannot believe I here.
You are only 23 years old, you look sensational, have a wonderful day.
Thank you.
We're now delighted to welcome to the studio
the inspirational Baroness Lawrence who
through her campaigning work who recently
met Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the
twenty fifth anniversary memorial service for
her son Stephen.
In terms of fish culture history we seeing something quite different.
You have met the couple, what was your impression of Meghan Markle.
Being introduced to her it seems she understood what happened around
Stephen and you had that empathy coming across. For me the day itself
was a roller-coaster and to have someone there just really engaging,
it was good to have that. What did she talk to you about? I think she
understood what happened around Stephen and she just said how sorry
she was to hear about it and really pleased to be there at the time. We
talked earlier on about this, the Royal Family always have their
causes but there's this thing that they cannot get involved in politics
but it is a point where they overlap a little bit. I remember when their
relationship was first announced there was a lot of language in the
press that I felt was coded racist references. And Prince Harry issued
a statement where he condemned that and that was unheard of for a senior
royal. I think it is difficult for them to put themselves out there on
issues like this but when it affects them personally they do and for me
that was a very welcome moment. People like me who write about this
we are often attacked ourselves for raising them and to have someone in
a position on your site makes a huge difference. I hope they will
continue to venture into spaces that historically have been considered a
bit too awkward because in this country we need to start to talk
about things that we have swept under the carpet before. I think
Meghan has a ready got a track record of doing that and that offers
a lot of promise. I do not think they would do it for this reason but
if the Royal Family want to make themselves more relevant that is
exactly what they need to do. We've just seen the Duchess of York
entering into the chapel and John Major and his wife, not a major
political figure any more but he has been invited today in a personal
capacity. I want to ask you about when we see the Royal Family turning
up at different events, usually they do add more attention to an event
because there presence. What does that mean to you in terms of Europe
continuing work. Well Stephen has already attracted a lot of media
attention but to have Meghan and Harry turning up was fantastic. It
shows that there are more in tune with what is happening within
society and the fact that they wanted to be there in support. We
had Prince William coming to the Stephen Lawrence just before and
that was amazing because they spent time talking to young people and you
just could not get them away, they were so keen to make sure they spoke
to everyone there on the day. You have been Chancellor of the Montford
University for a couple of years. Have you spoken to young people
about this wedding, are they engaged with it? I have not had a chance to
be there around the wedding but I have been speaking to them and it is
so important to get their views. We had one young student attending the
service, one of the law students so it is good to have young people. The
idea is about the voices of young people, that was the theme and to
see them there on the day, of course we invited all of our students to
make sure they're represented all times. Hopefully in the future we
can move on from this being a question but how important is it
that we're seeing the first biracial member of the Royal Family? Well
they had a black queen before in 1750 so not the first time but we
need to move away from always talking about colour and talk about
who the person is and what they bring with them both up for me that
is what is important. If we do not start doing that, we need to make
sure that we address the race issue but at the same time look at the
person and make sure we welcome them for who they are. Baroness Lawrence,
thank you so much.
Let's go back to Richard in Los Angeles.
Welcome back to one of the many parties happening across Los
Angeles. A marvellous crowd here and they have been watching the
arrivals. Fascinated at the arrival of George Clooney and James Gordon
also getting a cheer. Oprah Winfrey trying to find her seat. Earlier I
spoke to Debbie who was the founder of the school that Meghan went two
for nine years, the Hollywood schoolhouse. Emanuel is the director
of drama at St Francisco. Meghan of course is an actress and you gave
her her first lead role. I did, it was quite surreal but I'm so proud
of her performance at Saint Francis. And what stood out about her? When
she got on stage she was amazing right away, she had charisma and the
way she moved, it caught me right away and Lancaster as the lead. And
that background in acting, do you think that it helps on a day like
today when it feels like the whole world is going to be watching. The
beauty of theatre is that your evolving in that character and I
guess she has that charisma to reach out to other people. Thank you. Do
not play down your part in today, you gave her her first lead role.
More than 100 episodes of suits and then going on to marry Prince Harry,
I'm saying it is all down to you. Thank you and joining us later with
more of these parties in Los Angeles.
Angeles. Well Los Angeles not the only ones enjoying those arrivals.
We have in loving it. And Amal Clooney, we loved that yellow. Teddy
and Shantou are here and Meghan and you were just saying so many young
people here. What is so relatable about Meghan and Harry. I think of
the couple they are very honest in their relationship and their kind of
personalities and the work they have done elsewhere but especially Harry
with the Invicta as games and speaking about mental health issues,
that honesty is something that we can relate to. And they have both
had a career as well which is a kind of progression in the Royal Family.
And what Meghan has already done for young women is inspirational. She
has done lots for charity and empowering women to believe that
they have that voice and it should be used. Lots of people enjoying
their lunch but being in the middle of this fantastic atmosphere, what
is it like? Everyone is laughing and having fun, it is amazing. I think
we need some suncream, to be honest. I will go and get some now. Factor
50. Well being with the armed forces was
a very rewarding experience for Prince Harry and working with
wounded service personnel and he founded the Invictus Games which
have gone on from strength to strength. Victoria Gosling looked
after the games in 2016.
after the games in 2016. And any broad is a former team captain.
Welcome to both of you. You should be organising the wedding, Victoria,
with your CV. Toggle is about being CEO because Harry was quite tough
boss. Well we wanted to keep the brand integrity from 2014 and he is
very much engaged in making sure we kept that integrity but of course we
were taking it to America and it was the first opportunity to put the
brand on a global platform. In London he was there all the time but
when it came to Orlando he clearly could not be there and so he was
making sure that we were doing it. Then we came back to give him the
brief.
brief. Bernie, you were captain of the team last year. What effect did
the games have you personally? For me personally when I was retired
from the Army I still felt I was not performing up to what I was when I
was serving so to have the chance to be captain and to stand up and be
the person I was, it brought back that person but up that is
interesting because the Jewish servicemen and women in common with
service people around the world, they are people that have a lot of
stamina, people with ambition and strong character. The light to exact
and test themselves. Then if that is taken away that is a huge part of
your personality you cannot express any more. At times just sitting down
and watching TV you become introverted so the chance to step
out of that, that makes a massive difference. Just anecdotally talking
to service personnel, you in there for such a long time and there is
this sense from the people have spoken to that there is a certain
sense of loss. And the Invictus Games, has that feel that to some
extent? The Household Division, for me that was a huge part of me but
when you get together again with serving and non-serving personnel,
it is that camaraderie and you just feel part of it. And you could do it
as well as you did for Queen and country. You are both in Toronto at
the first public appearance of Harry and Meghan. Build something low-key
but everyone knew it was a statement of the fact that they were together
and this was serious. Victoria, you saw that at first time, did the
sparks fly between them? It was a great place for them to go public
because the Invictus Games is special to Prince Harry and very
much has formed part of his life recently so the fact that that is
where they became public was great because everyone could see that
first-hand. Everyone was already enthralled with what was happening
with the games and it just added more sparkle. So what is next?
Sydney is next in October and everything in full flow. They are
having a delayed honeymoon and I wonder, just an idea, no way to the
games they might take time. Great place to do it.
place to do it. Over two Huw. 45 minutes away and the service will
begin. Just a couple of minutes before midday Meghan Markle will
arrive at
arrive at the Great West Door and process alone and then cross the
midpoint and then entered this section watched by people in the
Quire were of course Prince Harry will be waiting at the alter. The
Archbishop of Canterbury and the dean of Windsor is in charge of this
magnificent place and he will be in charge of the overall service. And
everyone here in the chapel now really enjoying a bit of a feast of
music. Some organ music earlier and now some orchestral music. Much of
that chosen with the advice of the Prince of Wales, having a very
English flavoured to a lot of that orchestral music. The BBC National
Orchestra of Wales and the English chamber Orchestra and the
Philharmonia, conducted by Christopher Warren-Green. We have
been listening to them rehearsing in the past couple of days and they are
a superb group of players and really entertaining the congregation before
the service begins. Look Bond is Assistant Director of Music and
organist for the service today. And we hear the organ in its full glory
during the wedding service with the congregational hymns. A great view
their through the organ screen up into the Quire. Just looking across,
down to the bottom end where we see John Major of course a night of the
Garter and that is the reason why he's there today. Along with his
wife, invited today because they are friends of the Royal Family and Sir
John has that additional
John has that additional status Knight of the Garter and they have
all been rewarded for their national contribution over the years. Sir
John of course as Prime Minister. David and Victoria Beckham already
in place waiting to enjoy this service and we can see George and
Amal Clooney flanked by other friends of Meghan Markle. And during
the service we will be able
the service we will be able to see Doria, the mother of Meghan Markle
and she will have one of the best views.
Just on the right-hand side we have the two chairs for the bride and
groom during the service. And now we have some members of the
Royal family making their way. Quite a leisurely pace towards St George's
Chapel. All of them doing what all the guests have been doing, just
enjoying the sunshine, just enjoying the atmosphere. There is a lovely
vibe today. Peter Phillips and his wife were, of course, married at St
George's window. Zara Phillips and Mike Tindall were married back in
2011 in Edinburgh. Zara Phillips is expecting a child. They will be
sitting very near the Queen and other members of the Royal family on
the right-hand side of the Quire as we look at them.
Just basking in the sunshine as they make their way down. They have a
very short walk from the private apartments, if you look at the part
of the castle in the background, that is where the private apartments
are. Prince Michael of Kent, Princess Michael of Kent, a cousin
of the Queen. They will be there with the Duke and Duchess of Kent.
We will also have the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, these are
cousins of the Queen. There is the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
Members of the Royal family making their way down. They know what is in
store. It is a happy service, a service of celebration. They are
enjoying the crowds outside, people having a very good look. How lucky
are these 2000 people in below award of Windsor Castle? They have waited
very patiently since about 8:15am, 8:30am, in lovely weather, but
waiting with the cameras poised. They are getting some of the best
shots possible of the Royal family as they arrive.
In a short while we will see the Prince of Wales and Duchess of
Cornwall, we will also see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh just
before the service begins. That is all to come. Mike Tindall and Zara
Phillips making their way in, looking very, very happy to be year.
St George's Chapel, Windsor, a great symbol of medieval splendour and the
perfect setting for today's service. Let's join Kirstie Ahn Dermot. We
are joined by one of our American colleagues, Meredith, who has
reported on the wedding since the start of the week. Thank you for
taking the time. It is a pleasure. We have said people seem to love
this in America, there are American TV crews everywhere. How big is it?
Tell us the truth? Very big, she is our California girl. People of all
ages remember that little boy Harry, and his brother William behind his
mother's Arscott, we were so saddened by that and have watched
them grow into amazing young man. -- behind his mother's casket. For him
to have fallen in love with a very modern woman with her own voice
proves to me he has good taste. We see the Princess Royal, I believe,
but I think the car is moving. We are at Clifton house
We are at Clifton house hotel, -- Clifton House Hotel, and inside the
mark four Rolls-Royce is Ms Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria
Ragland. We saw them arrive at the hotel yesterday, both looking
remarkably elegant and composed. We will, I think, see a glimpse of the
bride. The world is waiting. 1.9 billion views around the world. We
see she is wearing a veil but, for now, not much more than that. It is
moving at a stately pace as it progresses along the live way of the
hotel. -- the driver of the hotel, once home of Nancy and stir, --
Nancy Astor, the first female MP in the House of Commons in 1919.
Now is an opportune moment to throw to Tina Daheley.
Yes, sorry, I am trying to get that side of Meghan. She is coming past
us right now. Looking absolutely stunning. She has just waved, she is
wearing a long veil. Meghan looking very happy and relaxed next to her
mum, Doria, who is bursting with pride. You can just imagine what
that journey will be like for the next 30 minutes, that is how long it
takes to get to Windsor Castle, roughly 9.5 miles away. This hotel
has been closed to the public since yesterday evening. This will be the
first time they see the world's press, cameras pointing at them from
every angle, and the huge crowds that will be lining the streets,
waving and cheering them on as they approach St George's Chapel, where
we will see the dress in its full glory. From what I have seen, I am
sure the end result will be stunning. The last person on the
planet to see the dress will be Prince Harry. What a moment for
Meghan and the Royal family in 2018. Thank you so much for that. Jo, I
saw you rubbernecking! There are three women in the studio,
we all went... Really looking at the monitor. We saw a boat neck, a
sleeve and a veil. A very romantic neck, more demure than I thought I
had in my mind's I, and I liked the quite nicely chunky tiara, I could
not tell if it was diamonds, pearls or a combination. A beautiful low
blow and swept back in her hair on that almost gossamer like Dale.
that almost gossamer like Dale. -- veil. Did that glimpse give you any
clue at all? My neck is on the line. Meredith, I alluded to Nancy Astor
and the history of Clyde and house hotel. You have seen a lot come and
go, you are looking at the heart of the British establishment, there is
a fresh, smart American about to enter. We are looking Zara Phillips,
sitting in the Quire, making herself as comfortable as one can wear one
is heavily pregnant but doing a fairly reasonable job. When you see
this fresh, young American, great education, full of thoughts and
ambition, she has a million-dollar smile that the cameras love, she is
a great, and when I is a performer, I mean that in the best sense, she
knows how to communicate a message. -- when I say performer. What do you
make of this young woman coming into the heart of the British
establishment? She is so modern, very independent and speaks her
mind. It will be interesting to see if she can continue that once
married. She has stood up for so many important causes, including
gender equality, which is very important for her. She has spoken
about that so eloquently at the UN for many years. I hope her voice can
be heard. With Harry at her side, I think it can be. He wants to give a
voice, they are humanitarians and care about people and I think they
are a powerful team. The four of them, they call them the Fab Four
macro for a reason. I overheard some locals yesterday, one old lady said
I really hope that puts Windsor on the map.
It has been on the map for many years! But in our country it puts it
on the map. Not all of Britain looks like this, this is a very cliched
chocolate box view of Britain. The union Jacks and so forth. It puts
Windsor on the map in the States? Absolutely, we are not familiar with
it. People still thought the wedding was in London, including myself! Oh,
I have to goal on a train for 20 something miles. But it is really
like a fairy tale here. We are seeing Beatrice and Eugenie.
I am disappointed in the hat situation.
You live and learn. But they are gorgeous. I was told earlier it is a
very up and coming, emerging full designer called Bundle and McLaren,
already favoured by Royals. I think they are gorgeous. Really
understated and beautiful. Flanked by her fiance and father.
The Princess Royal is taking this all in. A grand scene where she has
been on many occasions. Just another day out! I guess it is a bit
special. Commander Tim Laurence is looking through the order of
service. I like her ruby red. Lots to look forward to, including some
utterly remarkable music. Meredith, how do you think Meghan
encompasses the modern American? She said she never wanted to be a lady
who lunches, she wants to be a woman who works. The modern American woman
is a doer, somebody who stands tall and proud of herself, very
independent, works hard, which she has done her whole life, and has
stood for something. She had principles from the age of 11 when
she found a dishwashing liquid commercial and found it sexist, her
father said to write a letter and another people she wrote to Hillary
Clinton, who was then the First Lady. A few months later, that
advert had been changed. For the last couple of years I have been
reading about her, time after time you go back to the fact that she is
a meritocratic, she has had to work very hard to get to where she is and
there is something admirable about that. And she gives back. She has a
plug for which she wants to use for positive things, that precedes all
of this. They were on parallel courses in some way, Harry was doing
the same thing, then they came together and it felt like a natural
union. Now we are looking at pictures
inside the Quire of St George's Chapel. We have the Nave on the
other side. We will hand over to Huw .
We are keeping a very close eye on the next group of arrivals, we have
already had quite a few members of the Royal family, but the bride is
on the way, we expect to see the groom very soon. He will be with his
best man, the Duke of Cambridge.
As we get closer to the wedding ceremony, I'm
delighted to welcome royal expert and Daily
Mail journalist Robert Hardman, and the
Sunday Times' royal correspondent Roya
Nikkhah, to the studio.
Fantastic to have you both with us on a day like today, weather-wise
and event twice, if I might say. Just before we see the groom and the
best man, Robert, just a thought about this partnership? We saw it
back in 2011, it seems a very long time ago, that royal wedding, now we
will see the roles reversed today. What are we reading into that and
what does that partnership tell us? We have the most modern royal
wedding we have ever had. Each one brings with it new developments, new
trends and fashions, but outside the castle today you have this
extraordinary atmosphere, it is almost like VE Day, the Stars &
Stripes alongside the union Jacks. Inside you have Hollywood, a
thousand -year-old castle with a thousand -year-old monarchy. It is a
fabulous blend of ancient and modern. The most modern? We can't
get away from us. I think it is the most modern royal wedding and the
most modern royal bride we have ever seen. She will walk herself part of
the way up the aisle, in a week of twists and turns. As Robert said,
this match shows that the monarchy has moved. A bit more slowly than
the rest of society, but it has moved and modernised and I think
people will celebrate that later today.
What did you make of the glimpse from inside the car? A very demure
dress, boat neck, it was hard to see if the tiara was the Spencer tiara
or one on loan from the Queen. Doria looks beautiful in a hat which we
think it's from burglary, Meghan looks magnificent. Not long to wait
before we see exactly what has been designed. A very quick word at this
point, one of the big elements of News of today, they are all waiting
patiently, the big news was the title for the new couple, a word
about the Sussex title? Duke of Sussex is a royal dukedom which
became extinct in the 1840s, the last one was the moderately wayward
sixth son of George III, he had no legitimate as so it faded from view.
It was widely expected that he was the Duke of Sussex, he is Earl of
Dumbarton, and a baron from County Down in Northern Ireland, but many
people will remember him as Prince Harry Wales.
They are very patient and quiet, a real sense that things are about to
happen. Let's join Dermot and Kirsty.
All the guests are waiting, studying the splendour in the chapel. Tom
Hardy also there.
Hardy also there. Whether now from the Terrence Higgins trust in green
and messy, the first recipient of the Diana Legacy Award.
-- Mercy.
The award is for young people who have continued the legacy of
Princess Diana in terms of kindness and compassion. I am an HIV
campaigner, I was born with HIV and I think it is so important that
young people living with HIV can have a voice in society and change
the perception. You are very eloquent, you make it sound easy
then it was. Definitely, it has been a process and a lot of time spent
thinking about how to do it and why to do it. And for the couple to
choose Nottingham for a visit for the Terrence Higgins Trust, it sent
out a huge message. It was massive, the Prince has been a strong
supporter for a long time but for him to use the Terrence Higgins
trust for their first joint engagement together it says
something about their care and concern for the cause and also that
they want to tackle the stigma still associated with HIV. And that is a
legacy of his mother. Absolutely and I was privileged to meet Princess
Diana on a couple of occasions and I can see his mother in Prince Harry,
they had that same passion and empathy for things that they care
about. And when he goes out he takes an HIV test, that was so important.
There was a huge increase in the self testing programme when he did
that so it makes a massive difference to normalise HIV testing.
Messy, what difference does it make for you to see probably the most
high-profile couple in the world right now. Well it is just a symbol
of how much they do care about HIV as an issue and they are really
involved in making sure that this stigma goes away. Do you have a wish
for the couple today? We wish them all the best and we are so honoured
that they chose us. And be deep association that you had to Princess
Diana, what would you like to say to them. I wish them all the happiness
in the future and carry on campaigning. Thank you so much.
We're looking at the magnificent victories from inside the chapel,
that is the Quire where the very closest friends and members of the
Royal Family are sitting. The splendid central Quire of the chapel
and beyond that we
and beyond that we can see the rest of the 600 guests in the Nave, and
it has been a remarkable morning. Windsor has been sparkling and
shining for everyone watching today and we have had a cross-section of
guests, people from the world of music and sport, people from
entertainment. They are all waiting, in their Royal Wedding best.
in their Royal Wedding best. As Mercy just explained the couple do
not want gifts, they have just asked people to donate to charities.
Crisis being one of them. Scott is little soldiers another. Wilderness
foundation. Now what is about to come out of this people carrier, we
believe that this made well be the groom and his best man.
And what a welcome they are getting. The staff of Westminster we believe
greeting them right now. Class hands, a little wave and I would say
Prince Harry is smiling and happy. But he knows the commitment that he
is about to make is the greatest of his life and maybe just looking a
little bit nervous and quite understandably. And kind of a long
procession down to your own wedding. His brother there who has seen him
through so much and apparently only recently asked to be best man, he
left it to the last minute. This is a change in Royal tradition. They
kind of have broken the tradition. And we learned less than an hour ago
that we will see a carry today once he has made his valve put on a
wedding ring.
wedding ring. -- his vows. . A personal choice for him as his
brother and father do not wear a wedding ring. But I very modern
decision for Prince Harry. Waving to the crowds and this is what they
have been waiting for. We know it's Harry said in a
wonderfully romantic piece of phrasing that he knew when he fell
for Meghan Markle his phrase was the star is aligned. And surely today
everything in order as he heads towards the chapel, the sun is
shining, the people of Windsor and beyond are out and this feels like a
very special day indeed. Just to give you a heads up as to what will
happen next. Prince Harry and Prince William arriving. They will be
received on the West Steps. Let's talk about the West Steps, they are
very important, this beautiful horseshoe of buildings. The 200
people that they have invited with a special connection to charities.
Gurkhas welcoming the pair and the wonderful sound of the bells
ringing. And that beautiful foliage surrounding the steps. A great site.
The two brothers mounting the steps to the West for and look at that
amazing display of flowers and foliage. The Dean of Windsor David
Conner is in charge of the service today. Reflecting the status of St
George's Chapel which is not under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop
of Canterbury but under the jurisdiction of the Queen, what is
known as a Royal peculiar, the official title for St George's
Chapel. And David Conner is the Dean, answerable to the Queen and
not the Archbishop of Canterbury reflecting the special status of
this chapel within Windsor. And the ancient College of Windsor and the
fact that this chapel has many centuries of royal tradition
attached to it. Also interesting that today Prince
Harry has opted to wear the frock coat uniform of the Blues and
Royals, reflecting of course his army heritage. He has more senior
ranks that he could call upon and more senior uniforms but it tells
you something about where he felt most comfortable today, and there at
the official harpist of Wales. Performing in the 20 minutes or so
before the brothers arrive. So making their way along the aisle up
towards the Quire. Their footsteps will be followed just before midday
by the bride herself who the joint halfway down the chapel just by the
organs screen by the Prince of Wales who will accompany her for that last
section of the procession. During that procession there will be a
performance of some wonderful baroque music by a Welsh soprano and
trumpeter. This is the scene outside on the fringes of Windsor and this
is just at the end of the Long Walk are approaching Windsor Castle
itself. There will be a grand procession here after the service so
this will be very familiar scene today. And we have the conductor
Christopher Warren-Green with his players entertaining the
congregation. A quick check on the time and I think they are pretty
much on time today. Robert Hardman is still with
is still with me and Roya. Wonderful to see those brothers in Blues and
Royals uniforms. People thought he could wear the Royal Marines uniform
but just that on between them they just looked so happy. And both
wearing the rank of major, totally equal today. Prince William wearing
the gold epaulettes. And he is also a night of the Garter cell wearing
those gold stars. That regiment means a lot to both of them and will
pay -- will play a key part today. The Queen gave her blessing for
that. The Royal Family arriving soon and the role of the Prince of Wales
today different to the one that we thought he would be playing.
Unexpected but I think he will be pleased and it will be wonderful to
see him as that which between the monarch and the younger members of
the Royal Family. We expected of course to see Thomas Markle her
father but I think it will be a good thing for the Prince of Wales and
the Royal Family and I'm told that he was incredibly touched that
Meghan asked him. Of course he was married here himself in 2005, a
place of happy memories for him. And after some of the events of recent
days, that is just drawn a line under that and for the Prince to be
there, he will be very touched to be right at the heart of it. It has not
been the easiest lead up in some ways for Meghan Stepney the family.
Is there a sense today that they have just pulled together and are
determined to enjoy it. There will always be a glitch with any Royal
Wedding, going back to Charles and Diana and you had the king of Spain
pulling out of that because the Honeyman was to begin in Gibraltar.
All of these things always happen. But it all comes good on the day and
right now everyone just having a wonderful time. And these will be
the scenes that people remember and not both glitches. So soon we will
have the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arriving and then after
that the arrival of Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh and
not to forget he is 96 and he suffered another bout of ill-health
so a lot of smiles when he turns up. He is the tiring Duke and I think
there was never any doubt that he was going to make it, I'm certain he
time that operation just to be ready for this. It was a month ago. There
was a certain amount of worry that he would not be able to attend. But
he has stamped his mark on Windsor may be more than anyone and when the
castle went down it was he who helped to redesign it and rebuild
it. So he was not going to miss this special day for the David Beckham
there and Sir Nicholas Soames, the grandson of Winston Churchill. Must
be quite an interesting conversation, he is not short of a
few opinions. David Manning who is mentally to win and Harry just
behind David Beckham. Mixed up celebrities with officials and I
like that. A lot of thought has gone into the service which seems obvious
to say but even more than people realise. It is not just to do with
that mix of readings and music but the form of words and the more
modern order of service that we are going to hear a bit later on. Not to
spoil it but it will be slightly different to what we expect. And the
Prince of Wales had an input into the music. He has strong views on
the kind of music he thought would be appropriate and they took his
advice. He loves English music and that was a strong feature of the
wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at their wedding and
people were struck at the time by the fact that he had taken great
care to choose his favourite composers. And I think again today
you can hear his influence. It is important at this point with just 15
minutes to go, some glancing references during the morning, Earl
Spencer earlier and the sister of Diana will be delivering one of the
readings and again a powerful statement about her presence still.
Harry has often told me that everything that he does in his life
and work he thinks about what his mother would have thought. He is
determined to keep her memory very much alive. Lady Jane Fellowes
giving a reading, Meghan wearing that engagement ring with Jules
belonging to Diana and this evening I'm certain there will be tributes
to Diana in the speeches and she will be felt as very much part of
the day. And as Harry said in his engagement speech, on days like that
when he proposed he really missed enormously.
Everyone watching will understand that there was a lot of happiness
and joy, but lots of poignancy? The whole world of a certain age will be
thinking about that 12-year-old boy making that incredibly brave,
desperately sad in 1997 behind his mother's coffin, on days like today
people will not forget that. There is added poignancy, today brings
that full circle. Robert, you mentioned the Long Walk,
Windsor great Park is a great site on any day in any weather, let's be
honest. But today we have been very, very lucky. They have been lucky,
but we've all been lucky, this is a magnificent sight. That is pretty
unbeatable. You are looking at the largest, greatest street party in
Britain. It is fabulous. They have been putting up the barriers and
expecting 100,000 people, I would not be surprised if that is more.
Ten, 20 or 30 deep, going back to the tree line. This is 2.5 miles
long, it is a big crowd. Heading back towards the castle, this will
be very familiar to Meghan, the George IV entrance to Windsor Castle
and the private apartments to the right-hand side with some
magnificent gardens which are just out of sight. That will be the root
of the final section of the procession today after the service,
which will be the big chance for the crowd to get, may I say, a much
better view of the brighter than we will now. She is inside the car. And
they will be going considerably slower than. It be a lot
slower than. It be a lot slower second time around! They have
probably been told that timings need to be adhered to, it is not the
stately pace it was earlier. That'll be the big pomp and pageantry
moment, with the mounted escort, the Household Cavalry. That is the
dividing line between the private part and the public part, that great
gates. Let's hear it for the Rolls-Royce Phantom four, dating
from 1950. It can clearly do something, it's clearly performs! It
is not a slouch at all. But it is elegant. It is one that has been
very familiar on so many big royal occasions. The bright making her way
into the castle, the next time we see Meghan will be when she arrives
at the west door. Waiting for her in the Quire will be her future husband
Prince Harry, and the best man, of course, the Duke of Cambridge. Just
chatting and exchanging a few words of reassurance and advice. They look
around slightly nervously, but we completely understand that. You get
a very strong sense when they are in such close proximity how well they
understand each other and get on, there is a clear, very strong bond.
It is lovely to watch, Harry looks a tiny bit nervous and William is
clearly joking and trying to keep his humour up and doing the little
toggle big Brother act, very reminiscent of 2011, where just
before Catherine arrived, William looked nervous and Harry was keeping
his spirits up. They arrived and had the choice of sitting in there for
quite a while but, wisely, went into another room to calm down and gather
their thoughts before they entered. Now they have a weight of around ten
minutes before the bride arrives. The bride having arrived at the top
end of the castle with her mother. The final adjustments will be made
before they arrive. Within a minute or so of midday. There will be great
fanfare by the State Trumpeters, we saw them earlier, resplendent in a
uniforms. Their Chudley uniforms, they will be sounding the fanfare.
-- there Tudor uniforms. They will signal that Meghan has arrived, that
the service will begin. I like to share with viewers how important
that moment will be, and to take it all in. That solitary section of the
procession will look very, very dramatic and very different. And
then to be joined by the Prince of Wales to go into the Quire itself,
we will not have seen anything like it in a royal wedding and, dare I
say, most other weddings. It is unprecedented for a royal bride to
walk herself down an aisle. Serena Williams, who is in the Quire, she
walked herself down the aisle when her father pulled out at the last
minute, perhaps she would have shared some last-minute tips with
Meghan on the old Whatsapp. It will look different, it will dramatic.
But she was an actress, I am sure she will be drawing on all her
composure, poise and experience in order to make it up to the organ
screen where the Prince of Wales will meet and accompany her.
Another point of difference, if people are expecting the Archbishop
of Canterbury or the Dean of Windsor to deliver the address in the
advice, well, this will be a new departure. We will have the head of
the Episcopal Church in America, Bishop Michael will be delivering
that. That will be interesting. The Archbishop of Canterbury in
effect is taking a slightly back-seat role. There are so many
different touches. We talked about how it would look different as the
bride arrives, it will sound different. The State Trumpeters have
composed a special fanfare just for Meghan. There will be two, one for
the sovereign, as there always is, but there will be very much her own
fanfare. What an entrance. Watching them sitting there,
surrounded by emblems of hundreds of years of royal tradition. It comes
out of every stone of that building, it is remarkable. Some more people
arriving, let's see who will emerge. I think we are about to see the
Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. We will probably see the
Duchess of Cambridge in a short while. We are waiting for that
lovely scene with six bridesmaids and four page boys, all of them
there for a special reason, whether because they are children of friends
or children of the Royal family itself. I think it will be a lovely
site. -- I think it will be a lovely sight. She will be accompanied by
the children up a very good friends the Mulroneys, two page boys. The
mother of the bride has been greeted at the South Door, making her way
into what must be for her a very own real day. She is going to be proud,
she is going to be overjoyed but will be pinching herself. -- what
must be for her a very unreal day. This is an experience nobody can
really prepare for, is that fair? A week ago she was in California,
packing and thinking what to take to the UK, yesterday she was having tea
with the Queen, today she is being watched by over a billion people. It
is a wonderful family moment, it does not matter if you are watched
by one person or a billion, you are seeing your daughter gets married.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom six, this one is from the 1970s, I think, for
those of you keen on the cars, this is bringing the Prince of Wales and
the Duchess of Cornwall to the Galilee Porch. This is not the south
entrance, it is a different entrance which is used by members of the
Royal family. They will be making their way in, directly into the
Quire and the stalls. Later the Prince of Wales will make his way
down to the centre of St George's Chapel to wait for the bride as she
enters just at the stroke of midday. We are five minutes away from the
start of the wedding service of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, who were married at the
Guildhall in several -- in a civil ceremony in 2005 and their marriage
was blessed at St George's Chapel 13 years ago. And they're too at that
time and also today, Her Majesty The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. Her
Majesty, at the age of 92, clearly enjoying the day. The Duke of
Edinburgh has had his share of ill-health, delighted to see that at
the age of 96, 97 next month, he is able to attend the wedding today.
That will be a source of great joy to the couple and the entire family.
Very interesting at this point, I have just been told that the Queen
is wearing a coat and dress, a line, lemon, purple and grey printed silk
coat and dress. The hat is by Angela Kelly. It will make quite a
statement. And there we have the mother of the bride, proudly waiting
in the Quire. Just a thought for what Doria is thinking at this
moment? She must be feeling exceptionally proud of her daughter,
completely overwhelmed, I am sure. The Queen and the other members of
the Royal family have gone out of their way to make a welcome, I'm
sure she feels incredibly proud that her daughter, an American, is about
to marry into the Royal family and become the Duchess of Sussex. I'm
sure she never would have thought that would happen two years ago. She
looks overwhelmed, which is quite sweet. Harry looks tense. The Duke
of Cambridge looks nervous, he has a bridesmaid and a page with family
honour at stake! They both have things to worry about. She is the
only member of Meghan Markle's family attending. She is
representing her daughter today. Amazing. We want to see the
bridesmaids and the page boys, I think we are about to be treated.
Cars making their way down, the Daimlers from the Royal Mews, making
their way down towards the guardroom where our studio is, this is our
vantage point. Slowly making their way past all the crowds, 2000 people
invited into the lower wall today. Lots of these are members of the
Royal household or people part of the Windsor Castle community, but as
I said earlier, around 1000 of them have been selected by the lordly
tenants. -- the Lord lieutenants.
The State Trumpeters of the Household Cavalry, with their grand
fanfare, telling everyone that Her Majesty has arrived at St George's
Chapel and we are within minutes of this wedding service taking place.
The great window on the east side, which was put in to remember Prince
Albert in the 1860s. It is a very different window to the one above
the west door which is a
the west door which is a Tudor window. The Duke of Edinburgh is
looking pretty cheerful, Robert? Adopt this is the first time we have
seen him walking in public since his operation. --, this is the first
time we have seen him walking in public since his operation. Dermot
and Kirsty Orange Order in this scene?
DERMOT: as soon as we found out one of the bridesmaids was going to be
two, all of the mothers in the team which is thinking, what are you
thinking?! This is Prince Harry's goddaughter. It is realise that it
is 50/ 50. Kirsty: Ivy Mulroney is the daughter
of Jessica and Benedict, very close friends of Ms Markle. Along with a
little IV, her brothers, twin brothers aged seven, will be popping
out soon. -- along with little Ivy. They are all behaving very well so
far and look utterly delightful. Jo Elvin, what do we make of what the
flower girls are wearing?
flower girls are wearing? They are picture perfect and I love to their
confident waving as they came in. No big deal, another day out, greeting
the public in a way I did not think I could. Charlotte is getting it
down to our tee. What do you make of what the Queen was wearing, Jo?
We are looking now at the car. It has the woman of the moment, Ms
Meghan Markle, making her way towards the West Steps of St
George's Chapel. Well-wishers waving, taking photos. What a moment
of history for her.
And in just a few moments time, the doors will open and we will get to
see a dress that has been talked about more than any other dress in
the last couple of months, a lot of speculation, not least by us this
morning. We will see Meghan Markle in all her splendour. There are the
Mulraney twins with her.
Mulraney twins with her. -- Mulroney twins. Out they come. Here comes the
bride.
And it looks to be an exquisitely cut and in many ways, minimal and
traditional dress, with a splendid veil. Meghan Markle, the bride, is
wearing her hair up. The veil has been caught in the maze sunshine.
Stunning! A wave to the crowd, and utterly exquisite dress. He looks
nervous now, doesn't he! Do you know what I like about it? It does what I
said, fuses the sophistication and chic that she brings to her outfits
but it has the real moment, it is beautiful, absolutely beautiful. We
are looking at Brian and John Mulroney, who are helping with the
train and doing a pretty decent job because I don't reckon they have
done this before! What a job that is! It is Claire White Keller or
Givenchy. You thought that was a possibility early in the day. That's
amazing, congratulations to her. No one had mentioned her other than you
on this varies over! She managed to keep it under wraps.
FANFARE.
MUSIC: "Eternal source of light divine" - Ambrose Philips
Ms Elin Manahan Thomas (Soprano) with Mr David Blackadder (Trumpet)
# Eternal source of light divine
# Eternal source
# Of light divine
# With double warmth
# Thy beams display
# And with distinguished glory shine
# To add a lustre to this day #.
# And with distinguished glory shine
# To add a lustre to this day #.
The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
And also with you.
God is love, and those who live in love live in God
and God lives in them.
In the presence of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
we have come together to witness the marriage
of Henry Charles Albert David and Rachel Meghan,
to pray for God's blessing on them,
to share their joy and to celebrate their love.
Marriage is a gift of God in creation through which husband
and wife may know the grace of God.
It is given that as man and woman grow together in love and trust,
they shall be united with one another in heart, body and mind,
as Christ is united with his bride, the Church.
The gift of marriage brings husband and wife together in the delight
and tenderness of sexual union and joyful commitment
to the end of their lives.
It is given as the foundation of family life in which children
are born and nurtured and in which each member
of the family, in good times and in bad, may find strength,
companionship and comfort, and grow to maturity in love.
Marriage is a way of life made holy by God, and blessed by the presence
of our Lord Jesus Christ with those celebrating a wedding
at Cana in Galilee.
Marriage is a sign of unity and loyalty
which all should uphold and honour.
It enriches society and strengthens community.
No one should enter into it lightly or selfishly, but reverently
and responsibly in the sight of Almighty God.
Harry and Meghan are now to enter this way of life.
They will each give their consent to the other and make solemn vows,
and in token of this they will each give and receive a ring.
We pray with them that the Holy Spirit will guide
and strengthen them, that they may fulfil God's
purposes for the whole of their earthly life together.
MUSIC: "Lord of All Hopefulness" - Jan Struther
HUW EDWARDS: THE FIRST TEAM IS A PRAYER FOR GOD'S GUIDANCE THROUGHOUT
# Lord of all hopefulness # Lord of all joy
# Whose trust, ever childlike, no cares could destroy
# Be there at our waking, and give us, we pray
# Your bliss in our hearts, Lord, at the break of the day
# Lord of all eagerness, # Lord of all faith
# Whose strong hands were skilled at the plane and the lathe,
# Be there at our labours and give us, we pray,
# Your strength in our hearts, Lord, # At the noon of the day
# Lord of all kindliness Lord of all grace
# Your hands swift to welcome, your arms to embrace
# Be there at our homing, and give us, we pray,
# Your love in our hearts, Lord, at the eve of the day
First, I am required to ask anyone present who knows a reason why these
persons may not lawfully marry, to declare it now.
The vows you are about to take are to be made in the presence
of God, who is judge of all and knows all the secrets
of our hearts.
Therefore, if either of you knows a reason why you may
not lawfully marry, you must declare it now.
Harry, will you take Meghan to be your wife?
Will you love her, comfort her, honour and protect her, and,
forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long
as you both shall live?
I will.
Meghan, will you take Harry to be your husband?
Will you love him, comfort him, honour and protect him, and,
forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long
as you both shall live?
I will.
Will you, the families and friends of Harry and Meghan,
support and uphold them in their marriage now
and in the years to come?
We will.
as we stand, let us pray for Harry and Meghan.
God our Father, from the beginning you have blessed creation
with abundant life.
Pour out your blessings upon Harry and Meghan,
that they may be joined in mutual love and companionship, in holiness
and commitment to each other.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son,
who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
MY beloved speaks and says to me, "Arise, my love, my fair one,
and come away.
For now the winter is past, the rain is over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth.
The time of singing has come,
and the voice of the turtle-dove is heard in our land.
The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines are in blossom.
They give forth fragrance.
Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away."
Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm.
For love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave.
Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame.
Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it.
If one offered for love all the wealth of one's house,
it would be utterly scorned.
# If ye love me, keep my commandments
# And I will pray the Father
# And he shall give you another comforter,
# That he may 'bide with you forever
# E'en the spirit of truth #.
# That he may 'bide with you forever
# E'en the spirit of truth #.
HUW EDWARDS: the address given by the head of the Episcopalian Church
in the USA. And now in the name of our liberal rating, loving and
life-giving God, the Father, son and holy spirit, are men. From the song
of Solomon in the Bible. Set me as a seal upon your heart. As a seal upon
your arm. For love is as strong as death. Passion fierce as the grave.
His flashes are flashes of fire. A raging flame. Many waters cannot
quench love. Neither can floods drown it out. The late Doctor Martin
Luther King once said, and I quote... We must discover the power
of love. The redemptive power of love. And when we do that, we will
make of this old world, a new world. For love, love is the only way.
There's power in love. Don't underestimate it. Don't even over
sentimentalise it. There's power. Power in love. If you don't believe
me, think about a time when you first fell in love. The whole world
seems to centre around you and your beloved. Well, this power, power in
love, not just in its romantic forms, but any form, any shape of
love, they certain sense in which when you are loved and you know it,
when someone cares for you and you know it, when you love and you show
it, it actually feels right. There's something right about it. And
there's a reason for it. The reason has to do with the source. We were
made by a power of love. And our lives were meant and are meant to be
lived in that love. That's why we are here. Ultimately, the source of
love is God himself. The source of all of our lives. There's no
medieval poem that says, where true love is found, God himself is there.
-- there's an old medieval poem that says. The new Testament says it this
way. Beloved, let us love one another, because love is of God, and
those who love are born of God, and love God. Those who do not love, do
not know God, and why? Because God is love. There's power in love.
There's power in love to help and he'll went nothing else can. There's
power in love to lift up and liberate when nothing else will.
There's power in love to show us the way to live. Set me as a seal on
your heart, a seal on your arm. For love, is as strong as death. But
love is not only about a young couple. The power of love is
demonstrated by the fact that we are all here. Two young people fell in
love, and we all showed up. But it's not just for and about a young
couple who we rejoice with. It's more than that. Jesus of Nazareth,
on one occasion was asked by a lawyer to sum up the essence of the
teachings of Moses. And he went back and reached back into the Hebrew
Scriptures, to Deuteronomy and Leviticus, and Jesus said, you
should love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and
strength. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is
like it, love your neighbour as yourself. And in Matthew's version,
he said, love of God, and love of neighbour, hanged overall the law,
all the prophets, everything Moses wrote, everything in a holy
prophets, everything in the holy Scriptures, everything God has been
trying to tell the world. Love God, love your neighbours. And while
you're at it, love yourself. Someone once said that Jesus began the most
revolutionary movement in all of human history. A movement grounded
in the unconditional love of God for the world. And a movement mandating
people to live and love. And in so doing, to change not only their
lives, but the very life of the world itself. I'm talking about some
power. Real power. Power to change the world. And if you don't believe
me, well, there were some old slaves in America's antebellum South, who
explained the dynamic power of love and white has the power to
transform. They explained it this way, in a spiritual, even in the
midst of their captivity. A healing balm in Gilead to make the wounded
whole. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the soul. One of the stanzas
explains why, if you cannot preach like Peter, and you can't pray like
Paul, you just tell the love of Jesus, how he died to save us all.
That's the balm in Gilead. This way of love, it's the way of life. They
got it, he died to save us all. He didn't dive anything he could get
out of it. Jesus did not get an honorary doctorate for dying. He
didn't get anything out of it. He gave up his life, sacrificed his
life for the good of others. For the well-being of the world, for us.
That's what love is. Love is not selfish and self-centred. Love can
be sacrificial. And in so doing, it becomes redemptive. And that way of
unselfish, sacrificial redemptive love changes lives. And it can
change this world. If you don't believe me, just stop and think for
a minute. Think and imagine, well, think and imagine a world where love
is the way. Imagine our homes and families when love is the way.
Imagine neighbourhoods and communities where love is the way.
Imagine governments and nations where love is the way. Imagine
business and commerce when love is the way. Imagine this tired old
world where love is the way. Where love is the way, unselfish,
sacrificial, redemptive, where love is the way, then no child would go
to bed hungry in this world ever again. When love is the way, we will
let justice roll down like a mighty stream, and righteousness I can ever
flowing pool. When love is the way, poverty will become history. When
love is the way, the Earth will be a sanctuary. When love is the way, we
will lay down our swords and shields, down by the Riverside, to
study war no more. When love is the way, there's plenty good room,
plenty good room, for all God's children. For when love is the way,
we actually treat each other, well, like we're actually family. When
love is the way, we know that God is the source of us all. And we are
brothers and sisters, children of God. My brothers and sisters, that's
a new heaven, a new Earth, a new world, a new human family. And let
me tell you something, old Solomon was right in the old Testament,
there's fire. With this I should set down, we've got to get you all
married.
married. The French Jesuits, arguably one of the great minds,
great spirits of the 20th century. A Jesuit Roman Catholic priest, a
scientist, scholar and mystic. In some of his writings he said, from
his scientific background as well as his the logical one, his writings,
discovery and invention, harnessing the fire, was one of the great
scientific and technological discoveries in all of human history.
Fire, to a great extent, made civilisation possible. Fire made it
possible to cook food and provide sanitary ways of eating that reduced
the spread of disease in its time. Fire made it possible to heat warm
environments, and thereby made human migration around the world a
possibility, even into colder climates. Fire made it possible.
There was no Bronze Age without fire. No iron age without fire, no
industrial revolution without fire dustup advancements in science and
technology are greatly dependent on the human ability and capacity to
take fire and use it for the human good. Anybody get here in a car
today? An automobile? Nod your head is if you did. I know there were
some carriages! But those of us who came in cars, harnessing fire made
that possible. The Bible says, and I believe it, do Jesus walked on
water. But I tell you, I did not walk across the Atlantic Ocean to
get here. Controlled fire in that plane got me here. Fire makes it
possible for us to text, tweaked, e-mail, Instagram, Facebook, and
socially be dysfunctional with each other! Fire makes all of that
possible. And
possible. And they fire is one of the greatest discoveries in human
history. And he went on to say that if humanity ever harnesses the power
of fire again, if humanity ever captures the energy of love, it will
be the second time in history that we have discovered fire. Doctor King
was right, we must discover love. The redemptive power of love. And
when we do that, we will make of this old world, a new world.
My brother, my sister, God love you. God bless you. And may God hold us
all in those almighty hands of love.
HUW EDWARDS: well that was a very forceful and uplifting message from
Bishop Michael to be followed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir.
MUSIC: "Stand by Me" - Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir
# When the night has come
# And the land is dark
# And the moon is the only light we'll see
# No, I won't be afraid
# Oh, I won't be afraid
# Just as long as you stand
# Stand by me
# So darlin', darlin'
# Stand by me, oh, stand by me
# Oh, stand, stand by me
# Stand by me
# If the sky that we look upon
# Should tumble and fall
# Or the mountains should crumble to the sea
# I won't cry, I won't cry
# No, I won't shed a tear
# Just as long as you stand
# Stand by me
# And darlin', darlin'
# Stand by me, oh, stand by me
# Oh, stand, stand by me
# Stand by me
# Whenever you're in trouble, won't you stand by me?
# Stand by me
# Oh, stand by me
# Stand by me
# Darlin', darlin'
# Stand by me, oh, stand by me
# Oh, stand , stand by me
# Stand by me
# Darlin', darlin'
# Stand by me, oh, stand by me
# Oh, stand by me
# Stand by me
# Stand by me #.
Harry and Meghan, I now invite you to join hands
and make your vows, in the presence of God and his people.
I, Harry, take you, Meghan, to be my wife, to have and to hold
I, Harry, take you, Meghan.
To be my wife.
To have and to hold.
From this day forward.
For better, for worse.
For richer, for poorer.
In sickness and in health.
To love and to cherish.
Till death us do part, according to God's holy law.
In the presence of God.
I make this vow.
I, Meghan, take you, Harry.
To be my husband,
To have and to hold.
From this day forward.
For better, for worse,
For richer, for poorer.
In sickness and in health,
To love and to cherish.
Till death us do part,
According to God's holy law.
In the presence of God, I make this vow.
Heavenly Father, by your blessing let these rings be to Harry
and Meghan a symbol of unending love and faithfulness, to remind them
of the vow and covenant which they have made this day,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Meghan, I give you this ring.
As a sign of our marriage.
With my body I honour you.
All that I am I give to you.
And all that I have I share with you.
Within the love of God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Harry, I give you this ring.
As a sign of our marriage.
With my body I honour you.
All that I am I give to you.
And all that I have.
I share with you.
Within the love of God.
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
In the presence of God, and before this congregation,
Harry and Meghan have given their consent and made
their marriage vows to each other.
They have declared their marriage by the joining of hands and by
the giving and receiving of rings.
I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife.
Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder.
MUSIC: "The Lord Bless You And Keep You" - John Rutter
# The Lord bless you and keep you
# The Lord make his face to shine upon you
# To shine upon you and be gracious
# And be gracious unto you
# The Lord bless you and keep you
# The Lord make his face to shine upon
# To shine upon you and be gracious
# And be gracious unto you
# The Lord lift up the light of his countenance upon you
# The Lord lift up the light
# Of his countenance upon you
# And give you peace and give you peace #.
# Amen
Blessed are you, O Lord our God, for you have created joy
and gladness, pleasure and delight, love, peace and fellowship.
Pour out the abundance of your blessing upon Harry and Meghan
in their new life together.
Let their love for each other be a seal upon their hearts
and a crown upon their heads.
Bless them in their work and in their companionship -
awake and asleep, in joy and in sorrow,
in life and in death.
Finally, in your mercy, bring them to that banquet
where your saints feast for ever in your heavenly home.
We ask this through Jesus Christ your Son, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
Amen.
God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, bless,
preserve and keep you.
The Lord mercifully grant you the riches
of his grace, that you may please him both in body and soul,
and, living together in faith and love, may receive
the blessings of eternal life.
Amen.
Faithful God, holy and eternal, source of life and spring of love,
we thank and praise you for bringing Harry and Meghan to this day,
and we pray for them.
Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer.
May their marriage be life-giving and life-long,
enriched by your presence and strengthened by your grace.
May they bring comfort and confidence to each other
in faithfulness and trust.
Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer.
May the hospitality of their home bring refreshment and joy
to all around them.
May their love overflow to neighbours in need
and embrace those in distress.
Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer.
May they discern in your word order and purpose for their lives, and may
the power of your Holy Spirit lead them in truth and defend
them in adversity.
Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer.
May they nurture their family with devotion, see their children
grow in body, mind and spirit, and come at last to the end
of their lives with hearts content and in joyful
anticipation of heaven.
Lord of life and love. Hear our prayer.
Let us pray with confidence as our Saviour has taught us.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours,
now and for ever.
Amen.
HUW EDWARDS: Be sickened him is a call for God's guidance throughout
life. -- the second hymn.
MUSIC: "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer" - William Williams
# Guide me, O thou great redeemer
# Pilgrim through this barren land
# I am weak, but thou art mighty
# Hold me with thy powerful hand
# Bread of heaven, bread of heaven
# Feed me 'til I want no more
# Open now the crystal fountain
# Whence the healing stream doth flow
# Let the fire and cloudy pillar
# Lead me all my journey through
# Strong deliverer, strong deliverer
# Be thou still my strength and shield
# When I tread the verge of Jordan
# Bid my anxious fears subside
# Death of death, and hell's destruction
# Land me safe on Canaan's side
# Songs of praises, songs of praises
# I will ever give to thee I will ever give to thee #.
God, the Holy Trinity make you strong in faith and love,
defend you on every side, and guide you in truth and peace,
and the blessing of God almighty, the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always.
Amen.
HUW EDWARDS: What happens now, those who are signing the registers, will
move
move from the Quire. The Prince of Wales makes his way to the signing
of the registers, taking the mother of the bride with him, the
Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Dean of Windsor. While those
registers are being signed, there will be a feast of music for those
people still waiting in the chapel. Dan Snow, broadcast colleague, among
the guests in the Nave. The Duke of Cambridge. Reflecting maybe on what
they heard in a pretty lively and pretty forceful and uplifting
address, almost a sermon, by the Bishop Michael. I think it's fair to
say, it's an address the likes of which hasn't been heard in a royal
wedding, if at all, in recent years, because he really had a message to
deliver and he delivered it with energy and vigour. All about the
power of love, and the way Love had to be harnessed like fire in order
to be used wisely, and in order for it to sustain life. The music and
the performer standing by is Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the young 19-year-old
cellist, supremely talented. And everyone here, I promise you, is in
for a treat. Let's enjoy this.
HUW EDWARDS: Wonderful music performed by Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the
19-year-old cellist from Nottingham.
FANFARE.
# God save our gracious Queen
# Long live our noble Queen
# God save the Queen!
# Send her victorious
# Happy and glorious
# Long to reign over us
# God save the Queen!
A wave of cheers and encouragement from outside in the lower ward of
the castle, which can be heard very clearly inside the chapel as the
bride and the bridegroom, man and wife, watched by Her Majesty The
Queen and other members of the Royal family, process through the Quire
and down through the Nave to emerge in the sunshine in the Horseshoe
Cloister at the West End of the chapel and no doubt there will be a
rapturous reception for them before they undertake the carriage
procession around the sunny streets of Windsor on this lovely day in
May. Symphony number one in B flat by William Boyce is the processional
music. Passing through the organ is green and underneath that area of
the chapel and into the Nave, there we have again a reminder of the
magnificent floral display that was installed here in St George's
Chapel. Smiles all around and nods of encouragement. It has been a very
happy and uplifting service. And the lovely sight of the page boys and
bridesmaids who did their work perfectly, it has to be said.
Hints of the sunshine to come and the great sight of the west door of
St George's Chapel, Windsor, with members of the Household Cavalry
lining the steps, ready to escort the couple through the town.
The bride, looking radiant and there is the case that everybody was
hoping for and waiting for. -- there is the kiss.
DERMOT O'LEARY: that was a service and a half? KIRSTY YOUNG: you took
the words right out of my mouth, magnificent floral displays in front
and behind and a glimpse of the tiara, Queen Mary's tiara from 1932,
the central bridge dating from 1893. We were talking about the dress
quite a lot this morning and what a dress it has proved to be, what do
you make of it? Listen, slightly outside my comfort zone in this
esteemed company but she just looks stunning and happy. I thought the
page boys did a great job particularly, it was not what you
expected but what are your thoughts? I think it is absolutely genius as a
dress, it completely complements her style that we know her for in
everyday but it has the pure romance as well, it is perfectly regal for a
wedding, gorgeous. And members of the royal party being seen there,
not just the lovely bridesmaids, there is Princess Charlotte but also
take a look around, what a day this is. Her mother, the Duchess of
Cambridge, speaking to her, just a few short weeks after the Duchess of
Cambridge gave birth herself but she is looking splendid and Doria
Ragland, who as Sheku Kanneh-Mason was playing the cello, seems to be
having a few quiet thoughts to herself inside the Quire but now
here she is with their extended family, the Prince of Wales having a
few words with her, there. It couldn't be a more muted full day at
Windsor. -- more beautiful day at Windsor.
HUW EDWARDS: So, the carriage is ready, Prince Harry makes his way in
and helps his new wife into the Ascot Landau that they have chosen
for the carriage procession, a lovely, open carriage, perfect for
today, which will give everyone a very good look at the young couple
as they make their way through the streets of Windsor and then back to
the castle on the long walk. It is going to be a lovely procession. We
have been enjoying the service and now we are going to enjoy these
scenes as well. I have to say, Robert, at this point, they looked
remarkably happy and relaxed given that they have been through, what,
for both of them is life's great milestones. They have. All the
stresses and nerves beforehand, it is all over now and you can hear the
roars of the crowd is going from outside the ramparts come here they
are coming out of the Horseshoe Cloister into the lower award of the
castle and there will be another raw now as thousands of representatives
of all their charities welcome them out here,.
The national anthem being played for the new couple to make their way
through the then they go towards the great round tower, past St George's
Chapel, waving to the 2000 people who were specially invited and
included in this lovely event today and of course, watched keenly by
smiling members of the Royal family including the Queen and the Duke of
Edinburgh, who is here today just a month after some hip surgery so
people are very pleased that he was able to make it for this event. Look
at the waves and smiles, and really, Robert, the relief. Yes, relief,
rather sweet to see the Royal family standing by the side of the road,
waving, rather than being in the procession. Absolutely, just
amazingly lovely scenes, to see them together, and of course, this is the
start of that really rather wonderful pomp and pageantry moment
we're going to see with the mounted escort of the Household Cavalry.
This will be the first time that members of the public outside the
castle walls, the definitely more than the 100,000 that was estimated
to have come to see them, get a chance to see the new Duke and
Duchess of Sussex for the first time and what a lovely site that will be
and I think the noise of the crowd as they come up around the streets
of Windsor and back to the Long Walk will be amazing. They will go into
the eastern end of the castle and disappear for a few minutes and then
I expect the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will be leaving.
More people leaving the chapel itself, including the mother of the
bride. That has been for her a pretty intense and emotional moment.
Extraordinary, she looked remarkably composed the whole way through,
really emotional as she saw her daughter arrived, understandably.
Very soon, the Queen will be leaving St George's Chapel and the national
anthem will be played to signal the Queen's departure.
NATIONAL ANTHEM PLAYS.
The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh making their way back to the eastern
end of Windsor Castle, where Her Majesty's private apartments are,
where she spends so much of her time and that is where, of course, we get
the sense of the fact that she loves Windsor probably more than anywhere
else and who can disagree with that, given the fact it is a place that
has 1000 years of royal history attached to it? But here we are, the
wonderful carriage procession under way, and the young couple preparing
to greet the crowds on the streets of Windsor. We can see on the top of
the round tower to the right, the largest of all the very large royal
standards, the biggest one in a cupboard has come out today, it is
really magnificent, almost a hazard to air traffic, it is so big. Such
wonderful scenes, of course, these are the horses from the Royal Mews
who are pulling the carriage and shortly they will be joined by the
mounted escort of the Household Cavalry and I think it will be so
lovely to see the interaction between Harry and Meghan. They will
be seeing the crowds for the first time, that have gathered to see
them. The Windsor great horses, specially selected for the
procession, the ones who will be on their test behaviour but also the
ones that look really magnificent. -- grey horses. Everything has been
prepared in great detail for the procession which will probably last
the best part of half an hour but every inch of it has been planned
and you are going to see something, you know, not just the colour and
style and pageantry but it will be an impressive show for the world to
see. It is a symbol of military precision but also, the kind of, I
suppose, the ceremonial flair that the British bring to these things.
They do, we see occasions like this sometimes when the Queen welcomes
world leaders for state visits. There is a con Brobbel show then --
comparable show. As the procession comes out of the castle, it is going
to be unlike anything, the longest procession through the streets of
Windsor we have seen in a very long time. You mention extraordinary
training and precision that goes into this, these forces have special
training to prepare them for the crowds that they will see and hear.
-- these horses. We are told they have earplugs in their ears to help
them cope with the noise of the crowd and what will be lovely for
the mounted escort to see is the groom in his Household Cavalry Blues
and Royals uniform, I think that will make them feel especially proud
to be escorting him. DERMOT O'LEARY: TH THEY ARE PASSING THE VICTORIA
MONEY MAD, DOWN CASTLE HILL, TURNING LEFT UP THE HIGH STREET TO RAPTURES
OF WELCOME COME
The Household Cavalry coming down to welcome the new Duke and Duchess of
Sussex. KIRSTY YOUNG: it is a wonderful sight and a fusion of
significant British pageantry, matched with the rather charming
small-scale streets of Windsor, which are just sparkling today with
these beautiful union flag banners and you may see at some point on the
procession route, there's 1000 metres of bunting which has been
made by the tiny, busy hands of the schoolchildren of Windsor and many
other children from around Berkshire so we are seeing a lovely uniting of
some rather handmade, casual moments, and some very proper,
British moments.
Estimates today that around about 120,000 people would amass in and
around Windsor. I have to say, I think it will be in the final count,
many more thousands than that. The Windsor Grey Horses doing well, not
put off by the cheers and waving flags. There we get a glimpse of the
bride and groom. HUW EDWARDS: The carriage procession on its way
through the heart of the town of Windsor. They would on the
travelling escort, it's always a great site, the Household Cavalry
are so impressive on all occasions. We have two officers and 24 soldiers
involved in the travelling escort. The commanding officer, the
Lieutenant Colonel, commanding the escort for the entire procession,
and he has been in that position since December, 2015, riding very
close to the carriage. Probably on the right-hand side as we look.
James Gazeley. We spoke to Franklin O'Leary, yesterday. He has been on
several tours of Afghanistan and several tours with the Life Guards
since 2002. I think he served as a Ranger operator in Prince Harry's
trip. Lots of personal links.
trip. Lots of personal links. It goes into showing how much thought
has gone into this procession. Wonderful to see a mounted escort
with the cavalry. A wonderful personal link between commanding
officer James Gazeley and Harry. His sister was a bridesmaid as Charles
and Diana's wedding. And his father Nick Gazeley, a very famous National
Hunt racing trainer, trained the Prince of Wales. Fantastic to see
the Mounted Regiment doing their thing, doing their best, and the
pomp and pageantry makes us feel very proud. It certainly does, as
they come past the Victoria Monument. Colonel Gazeley was
competing in the showjumping at the Royal Windsor Horse Show last week.
The Victoria barracks on the left, they look quite modern, but there
has been a military barracks there since I think the 18th century, at
least the end of the 18th century. Of course, much enlarged thou, and
where lots of the Life Guards regiments come to stay in Windsor. I
guess they take their turn now. They rotate when they change the guard at
Windsor Castle. The procession coming down Sheet Street and into
Windsor Road. I walked down there yesterday and everybody has worked
very hard on their gardens and bunting. I think we will see a lot
of stars and stripes, a nice touch. And a lot of Canadian Maple Leafs.
They are very keen to claim the bride as well. The Commonwealth
theme was present for the bride, all 53 floral emblems of the
Commonwealth words represented on the Vale. -- on the veil. Some 250
members of the Armed Forces serving today in various ceremonial roles.
Lots of them with links to Prince Harry. The Irish Guards, very
prominent today. The 1st Battalion Irish Guards have been on duty. We
have the wonderful musicians of the Irish Guards
Irish Guards band performing today at Windsor Castle. Lots of different
members, different serving groups and regiments, all of them selected
for their links. All the services involved. People have made a huge
effort to decorate their homes. We were here two or three days ago, and
people were preparing at that point when, frankly, the town was not so
busy, but they were determined to have a great day. Time and again,
people were talking about the weather. There is always a bit of a
gamble in May in the UK with the weather, and this gamble has paid
off handsomely. Now we can see the procession completing the rotation
of some of the streets around the centre of town. Before we get to the
most spectacular part of all, the Long Walk through Windsor great
Park. We saw the car earlier speeding through. This will be a
very different experience and with the Household Cavalry in attendance
providing the escort, it will be one of the most memorable images of the
day, without question. Absolutely, a spectacular sight. Andy mentioned
there had been some
there had been some glitches, Huw, and the couple will be relieved that
the only non-glitch has been the weather. This is the picture of
Windsor and Britain we want to see. You can't pick a better time than
May for a wedding. All the parks and the castle is at its best. When the
weather is like this, it will be the most fabulous global picture of
Britain. We can already see people on one side of the road, and in a
moment they will charge across to the other, in the park, to get a
second glance of the couple coming down the other side. I think this
has exceeded all expectations, the crowds, there is no more room on the
pavement for the people. The Thames Valley Police working hard in
Windsor. Let's give them their credit. I would like to acknowledge
at this point, those members of the Armed Forces who are street lining.
That is a pretty arduous duty on a day like today with the temperature
is so high. Royal Navy Small Ships and Diving, Prince Harry was
appointed Commodore-in-Chief of Small Ships and Diving a couple of
years ago. Harry was appointed captain general of the Royal Marines
in December of last year, taking over from the Duke of Edinburgh, who
had held that title for 64 years, very much rich family heritage. The
Army Air Corps are taking part today, the Royal Gurkha Rifles and
we saw two officers opening the doors for some of the cars arriving,
on the steps of the chapel. And RAF Honington, Prince Harry appointed
honorary Commandant in 2008 by the Queen. They are all here for a
reason, it's not by accident. They are all here because they have a
personal bond with Prince Harry today. Prince Harry often talked so
movingly about how his ten years serving in the Armed Forces shaped
him. For that reason, it's wonderful to see so many of the regiments he
is personally linked with here today.
Just looking at them now, happy, taking in all the enjoyment of the
day. It is normal at this point, as we see them here, a newly married
couple, ready to embark on this fantastic journey back to Windsor
Castle and the reception that will take place in a short while, hosted
by Her Majesty The Queen, and there will be a private reception later
this evening. As we look at them now, a thought from the two of you
about the kind of lives they planned to lead, the kind of things they
intend to do. What can we say with confidence about what they want to
achieve and the kind of places they want to go to? As they made clear in
their interview when they were engaged, they see their future
strongly within the Commonwealth. Prince Harry will be a Commonwealth
youth Ambassador, as they turn onto the Long Walk, for the centrepiece
of this procession. I think the Commonwealth, we have seen touches
all through the service. It will be an extremely important part of their
lives. They will travel a lot through the Commonwealth. We do not
know whether Honeyman is, but I would bet an awful lot it will be
somewhere in the Commonwealth. -- we don't know where the honeymoon is.
They will hit the ground running. As soon as they are back from their
honeymoon they will do a lot of travel. We think there will be a
trip to Dublin being considered. Maybe the Netherlands. In the
autumn, they will embark on a big Commonwealth tour to Australia for
the Invictus Games, and possibly New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga as well.
Reinvigorating the Commonwealth, and what it means to young people will
be high on their agenda. The carriage proceeding along the Long
Walk, in the heart of Windsor great Park. It's the highlight of this
procession, as we joined Dermot O'Leary and Kirsty Young again.
DERMOT O'LEARY: it really is. That shot down the long walk, or two and
a half miles of it, is pretty spectacular. HUW EDWARDS: what I can
only describe as the natural grace of the Duchess of Sussex.
KIRSTY YOUNG: this today is quite a crowd. At the end of this they will
go through Cambridge gate. The Duchess of Sussex, if I may be the
second person to call her that! The carriage going through to reach the
castle's private grounds. They will then go to the reception after
photographs. We know the photographs are interesting. Alexi usually takes
front covers of Vogue magazine, taking snapshots of people like
Gwyneth Paltrow, movie stars, Beyonce. Today he will take six
official photographs of the royal party, including all those
astonishingly well-behaved flower girls and page boys. Who helped the
royal couple on to the West Steps of St George's Chapel today. The crowd
made up of so many people who have come out, and we reckon it's around
21 degrees with a light breeze in Windsor. When Harry's parents got
married in 1981, it was a scorching 24 degrees. We are lucky today, a
decent 21. I imagine after all of this they will have an appetite. The
Queen will host the reception in St George's Hall for the guests and
congregation. The head chef of the royal household is Mark Flanagan.
The main focus of the food will be in the season. For the most part,
food coming from Kent, the Garden of England, and also Norfolk. And then
there is the cake. There has been a lot of chat about that, elderflower
and lemon. We saw a beautiful, great big crate of Sicilian lemons on the
Instagram account of Claire Ptak, who has made the cake. Is it me, or
are the cheers getting louder? Meghan Markle is somebody who is
used to being composed, it's part of the job of an actress to perform,
but this is a very different role. This is a woman who seems very
natural, connected, not acting her way through a huge event, which she
might reasonably be expected to do, but every moment of the service, as
she sits by her husband, she is beaming with a smile and taking in
what is surely the view of a lifetime.
lifetime. Can we take a moment just to talk about her entrance into the
chapel come into the Nave, when she was on her own. That was quite
something. It was a remarkable thing. I think it takes a great deal
of self possession and composure, at a moment when, maybe more than ever,
you want an arm to lean on. In the days that have led up to this
magnificent day, she has not had her troubles to seek. The fact her
father was not able to come because of his health, meant
of his health, meant she had to meet the man who would become her
husband? She chose to do it on her own, with the seven-year-old twins
holding her train. They did a good job of that. The composure it took,
was quite something, Dermot, but she had it. She did. We reckon a
worldwide audience of 1.9, perhaps nudging 2 billion. I think Britain
is showing its best face. The sun is out and not a cloud in the sky.
And these people have been an the Long Walk, some of them since
Thursday, and this is the sight they have been waiting to see. The crowds
come to an end on the Long Walk and then it is the Private Garden that
the royal couple will move into. The cheers will be a distant sound and
maybe they will have a few moments to enjoy each other's company
therefore it is time for the photos and then time to greet the 600 odd
guests -- there, before it is time. The guests witnessed a service like
no other royal wedding.
And as the royal couple almost make their way up to the gate... Let's
see what the atmosphere is like right down there on the Long Walk
with Alex.
LAUGHTER And well she might take a moment!
Exactly!
I think they might, I mean, who knows what they are saying to each
other? It is private and entirely between them but I think they might
take a moment to congratulate each other on getting through what is
essentially an intensely private moment under such scrutiny. As Harry
walked down to St George's Chapel earlier today, just after 11am, I
think he had the look of a slightly nervous groom about him but nothing
more, his smile is broad, a confident wave, he got his girl.
Absolutely, he looks a very happy man.
And the role of the military today, so personal to Harry, as we know, he
served two tours in Afghanistan, 250 members of the armed services
involved in making sure that this splendid bit of pageantry is all it
should be and they are, many of them, service men that Harry knows
well and has served with. What a picture!
Somebody has been out with the more, Dermot! For the last week, day in,
day out. -- with the lawn mower. A beautiful scene. We interviewed
Frankie O'Leary yesterday, he did not let the name down, did very
well.
well. And so the Household Cavalry can be proud that, as they always
do, they did their bit for a splendid parade around Windsor and
it has been a treat for every single person who came along, who waved
their flag, who stood patiently to see the royal couple, the Duke and
Duchess of Sussex.
Well, that was the moment everybody here, thousands of people on the
Long Walk were waiting for, the procession and it has happened! Shia
absolutely perfect, we
all the tears. Oh, my goodness, there was a collective Garst...
Let's get some highlights. The look of love between them. The case! The
look of love, he couldn't take his eyes off her comedy? A bittersweet
moment for. Terrifying, I've lost my Harry! But you still have a tiara.
I'm very hurt about it but it was a beautiful situation. It might be the
last royal wedding for a long time but it was perfect and now for some
scotch eggs and a good glass of prisoner go!
A glass of prisoner
-- that's where the party is! "She Looked gorgeous!" There's lots to
talk about because we seen the dress and the guests and we want to talk
to two people who have stayed with us to watch all of that, there's no
other word but magnificence. Meredith, can I come to you first?
What did you make of that? I'm literally blown away. Are you? We
are in a flight path and the planes coming in, I can only imagine the
pilot saying, "If you look to your left..." And this unbelievable seed
is unfolding. I thought it was magical, you talked about her grace
and how confident she felt. She has been that way since she was a little
girl, if you look at the films of her and the interviews, she has
always carried herself with dignity and you saw it today. But what
really stayed with me were the freckles. She used to talk about
being biracial and very proud of both races and yet feeling she never
fit into either, so to me, being told to cover her freckles, it was
symbolic that today she said, "I am Meghan Markle commune looking at
me". What a sight to behold. There was a moment when a Household
Cavalry went past and you turned around and said, "You guys know how
to do weddings!" They are not all like this. You do but in the end
they are just two people in love, you saw it so clearly, they really
love each other. We are going to talk to you a bit later but briefly,
your thoughts on the dress. Absolutely stunning, nailed it,
smashed it. It was superb. Absolutely, as I said before, the
perfect fusion of modernity and pure romance. It was refined modernity.
Appropriate to the location and yet it was absolutely her. The word I am
searching for is exquisite. It was superb. Let's go to Anita.
James Haskell, how was that? Incredible, I thought the address
was sensational from Reverend Michael Curry, Meghan looked
sensational, the Gospel choir was on form, everyone was clapping along
with the music at the end, the best wedding I've ever been to, probably.
We were all part of it but for you to be in there, what was the emotion
and the atmosphere like? Of course, when the doors opened and Meghan
walked down, initially on her own, it was an incredible statement, she
looked amazing and everybody's headstand, and as soon as the
service started, you could feel the electricity in the air. Everyone was
singing, I kept my singing voice to a minimum, I did not want to upset
anyone because I've got no singing skills. But you have got the rugby
skills we forgive you. All royal weddings are remembered in history
but I think that was a game changer. Obviously, on a number of levels but
more so than anything else, the reverend's address, you know, I
think the world is in a bit of turmoil at the moment and for some
and to cut through that and speak very clearly, obviously to celebrate
the day for Harry and Meghan but talking about loving people more and
we should be more accepting. I think it was amazing. I think it will go
down in history for a long time. I think you are absolutely right and
you look very smart, I will let you go because you've got a lovely lunch
to get to. We could do half an hour on the
Bishop's address. I think that might be a whole other programme, but news
Justin, wasps and England flanker James Haskell is tone deaf, good to
know he's bad at something! It's been an exciting, I was going to say
exhausting day but it has been exhilarating and it's not even
1:30pm!
How are they faring in Los Angeles where they've been up
all night watching?
Richard Bacon is there.
The sun is rising here in Los Angeles in Santa Monica. It has been
fascinating joining this viewing party, just watching them watching
their hometown girl join the British royal family, 5500 miles away. It
wasn't just that you could see the emotion, you could really feel it as
well, the silence as the car rolled up to the chapel, cheering, as you
expect, as we saw the dress for the first time, Meghan's old headteacher
was standing in front of me crying, she had her arm around her son who
had been in class with Meghan. And another interesting thing, the
perspective of being British here, watching this, you just got an
absolute sense of the impact that this is having globally. Your
afternoon there is just beginning, our long night is over and it is
time for bed here but I leave you with this comment as I was watching
the service, there was a girl sitting next to me who lent over to
her friend and whispered," this marriage is going to change the
world". I think that is the feeling of the people who have watched it
here in Los Angeles. Thanks, Richard. Let's go to Anita.
JJ Chalmers with an invite to the wedding, how was it? It was lovely,
such a wonderful occasion, it all seemed to go down well, highlights?
I've got to say there were great moment when we were in there, when
you could hear the crowd outside when they said, "I will", and the
crowd went mad and we all laughed, really nice moments like that. Where
were you sitting? About halfway back on the left and just sat amongst
everyone, you could look around and see the big names and all that but I
thought there was a really nice moment when they said, as a
congregation, we had to say, "We will", as family and friends to look
after them and that was such a lovely thing to be part of, to go,
OK, we will look after you like you have looked after us. You said it in
the chapel and I said it as well as I think the whole nation did! It was
something spectacular, a ramp -- a moment in history like all royal
weddings but it felt completely different. You're absolutely right,
something different, it was definitely a Royal wedding, big
occasion, uniform, pomp and ceremony but I loved the other cultural
elements mixed in, the Gospel choir was fantastic. I am going to let you
get to lunch and you are going to the party in the evening as well
foster I've got my dancing shoes on so I'm going to go and enjoy myself.
I will get all the gossip from you later and you scrub up great as
well! Thank you. HUW EDWARDS: Still a big crowd and Roya Nikkhah and
Robert with me as well, I would just like to tell you what is going on
inside the castle, the reception that is happening on what we think
is going on in terms of what has been laid on and what it tells us
about the nature of today's immense. They have a traditional reception in
St George's all but with a lot of modern touches, we know that the
cake is not traditional, it is lemon and elderflower and I understand
that recently they have started growing their own sparkling wine at
Windsor and the Queen is serving it for the first time after the state
occasion of the Commonwealth summit the other day. Did it go down well?
Eksteen well. They wouldn't be serving it otherwise. And they make
their own ice cream so home ingredients. The kitchens have been
cooking for 800 years with a bit of modernisation in between, I suppose.
In terms of lunchtime and then the Private reception this evening,
which does involve a reduced number of people and that has also been the
source of some commentary. Very intimate, 200 people will make it
onto that elite list and we are going to have some speeches from the
Queen and possibly the Prince of Wales but tonight is where the party
starts at Frogmore house, it is under wraps and you can read all
about it in the Sunday Times tomorrow, we will have all of the
scoops! Still lots of colourful and impressive military activity going
on, the Royal Marines making their way through the centre of Windsor
and quickly I would like to ask you for your highlights of the day
because to be fair, you know, we have got a choice. In terms of not
just the arrival of the bride and the emergence of the dress but
actually there were several special moments, first, what is your
highlights? It has to be the music in the chapel. Monarchy is all about
bridging the past with the present and I think there was a glorious
fusion of the very best of English choral tradition, great organ music
but fabulous Gospel choir. It just brought past and present together
beautifully. For me it is seeing Meghan incredibly composed, walking
herself up the aisle. She looked radiant and the dress by Claire
Waight Keller was sensational but also Charles and William having fits
of giggles at some point, the sense of humour in the chapel was
fabulous. It has been great to have you both with us. Thank you so much
for enjoying the event with us. And with that, let's go back to Dermot
and Kirsty. Thank you, we are seeing this
incredible procession with many different regiments, divisions of
the Household Cavalry. We saw the Royal Marines and the Irish Guards,
which leads us to our favourite moments, our highlights. I imagine
they are clothes based for you. Taking a wild guess! The dress, the
dress, the dress, it was worth the wait and be surprise, it was pure
class, I think that is the word. When he lifted her veil and we saw
the tiara. The veil in itself, laden with symbolism, the symbols of the
Commonwealth, all the nations sewn into it on a beautiful piece of
craftsmanship. And again, with Meghan Dunn it is totally
considered, a real worldview and thinking about everything. -- with
Meghan, it is totally considered. The fact she is the first female
artistic director of Givenchy, Claire Waight Keller, I don't think
that's an accident, Meghan has considered everything making these
decisions. And watching Meghan's mon, the only family member here,
for her this has to be an incredible moment, and she maintained the
dignity and class of her daughter. Total composure all the way through.
The Apple has not fallen far from the tree and the thing about Doria
Ragland, given the amount of, and I'm sure it is background noise to a
degree, the amount of press and media speculation, a lot of the
chapter, much of it is not good that has happened around her family, for
her to be there and be the person she is and conductors often the way
she probably always has but to do it under the spotlight is quite
something. Absolutely and for all that has happened in the past week,
and Meghan Markle has said in a past her dad was such an important part
of her life growing up and so I am really sad and he couldn't be here
for this moment.
There was a beautiful and tender moment when Prince Charles walked
Meghan down the aisle and Prince Harry just said very quietly to him,
thank you, pa. Will Greenwood and Karen Greenwood, how was that
experience? We went out to go to the loo, and we had a half decent seat,
but when we came back, there were not a seats left. They were going to
separate us. The next person that walks past, Will and Harry. We were
right by the harpist. He told me to shave. I said, pot, kettle black.
The seat was in pole position, a amazing. The choir was incredible.
It was seamless, amazing.
It was seamless, amazing. It was very friendly, relaxed, people were
chatting. People were laughing and joking. It was warm, just a room
full of happiness. It was incredible. The entire wedding was
just magical. I think that happiness is seeping out of the walls of the
chapel and out of people's televisions across the nation. Where
we were staying, it was clear with the rugby connection with Harry, and
a lot of Meghan's friends, everybody was drinking water, staying safe,
and then the bellinis came around. Everybody had just the one. Can
Harry actually play rugby? He's terrible. But he's keen and God
loves a try! You look fantastic, enjoy your lunch.
We have been speaking about the magnificent music today. When the
bride possessed along the aisle, we heard the fantastic voice of Helen,
the Welsh soprano bust up we are old friends. It was fantastic as the
power was it for you? It was very exciting. When I got the call in the
middle of March, saying they wanted to walk into that song, I screamed.
It's a beautiful song. I have sung it at one wedding before as the
bride possessed. It was a lovely atmosphere. What's the challenge of
performing on this kind of stage? You are no stranger to performing,
but on this stage, does it make a difference? The biggest stress was
how fast she would walk. It's her moment. You don't want to be too
fast, you don't want to arrive with three minutes spare, you don't want
her to miss getting there. Had been so much planning. The rehearsal was
a tightly woven embroidery. It has all been really well set up. I think
the most important thing was it felt like a family and friends wedding.
Even standing up in those moments before the fanfare, looking out,
nothing but smiles. Relaxed faces. I saw Prince Harry at the start and he
said Mollgaard luck to you. Everybody seemed very happy to be
there. It seemed like a true celebration. Who we most thrilled to
see today? I met George Clooney! Let's go over to Ore.
It was that kind of emotional ceremony, whatever age you are and
wherever you are from Knierim the felted. -- where ever you are from,
you really felt it. It was absolutely worth the wait? Worth the
wait, worth the travel, and with the pressure of getting a new outfit to
be here. Amazing. You do look absolutely fantastic. What was so
special about the ceremony for you? Just being able to be here and be
part of it was magical. The atmosphere, and when the Royals
past, they acknowledged us. That was very nice, very special. And you got
to share with your mum as well. Catherine, we have had a chat live
on BBC One. Kids, you are just a couple of steps away at your school.
It must've been an incredible occasion to see the Royals come down
here. We saw William and Harry walked straight past as before the
service. They waved madly got to say hello it was amazing. You go to
school literally just over there. Just down the steps. And we have a
close bond with the chapel and castle, so it's very special. This
is a day none of you will forget. I'm glad we got to share it
together. Genuinely. From us down here in the lower ward, it's been an
incredible, incredible day. DERMOT O'LEARY: we have had a love story
here. I don't think there will be any love lost between Chelsea and
Manchester United in the FA Cup final. I see what you did there. Dan
Walker is at Wembley with the latest team news and the big question, what
will the referee be wearing?
That is the big question and I can exclusively reveal that referee
Michael Oliver will be wearing all black today. It will not be a yellow
top because the Chelsea substitutes have yellow bibs. Manchester United
taking on Chelsea in the FA Cup final. Prince William is the
president of the FA, and he would usually give out the cup and the
medals, but Jackie Wilkins, the widow of the recently departed Ray
Wilkins, she will be presenting their medals, a wonderful touch from
the FA. And Celtic against Motherwell kicks off at Hampden Park
from three o'clock in the Scottish cup final. The build-up to the game
here at Bramley begins at 4:10pm, so extend those barbecues and street
parties into the afternoon. -- here at Wembley.
Thank you, Dan. What will I do now? I will pop down there in a few
moments time when we are off air, to chat to people to see what they
thought of the service. Most people seem to agree on one thing, it's a
very different kind of royal wedding service to the one that lots of us
had even imagined, even though we had been told it would be much more
modern, radical in some ways. And the unique pattern of the service.
Thanks for watching, and we will head back to Dermot and Kirsty. One
of the best weddings I have ever been to, everybody comes out and
says, the most wonderful thing about it was, it was a room full of
happiness. It takes something, although this is not big for a royal
wedding, it takes something for people to come out and say the
underlying emotion was it was a room full of happiness. What are your
highlights? I think the tiara. As Dermot said, the choir, the love in
the room, I can't stop smiling. Imagine being the bride! I don't
know if the reception will be anything like an American wedding
reception, but I guarantee a drunk or tipsy anti or uncle will say,
when will you have a baby? It will start today! It was all wonderful,
but I had to match highlights. The first was when I heard the choir
singing Stand By Me, and that very intimate moment between the bride
and groom, when the Dean of Windsor said, when children are all, talking
about marriage. And both of them could not help but let a smile play
across their lips. I don't know if they squeezed hands, but something
travelled between them. We hope that might be the next page of their
story, where they give to us a gorgeous product of their union and
we can enjoy that as well. There was something of the intimacy between
the two of them in that moment that seemed particularly poignant. We
would be in remiss if we did not mention Bishop Curry before we left.
I don't think any church in England has seen an address like that
before. I heard a noise and it might have been jaws hitting the floor in
St George's Chapel. That is typical in America. It is not typical here.
Thank you to both of you for your thoughts. It has been fantastic to
share this day with you. That's just about it from us for now. It has
been really and truly a wonderful occasion. Enjoyed by millions around
the world, possibly billions. If you want to relive it all over again,
you can join us later this evening for the highlights show on BBC Two
from 7pm. It's brilliant and annoying, does it means we have a
glass of bubbly now. The FA Cup final is coming up on BBC One, and
we will leave you with some of the most memorable moments from a
glorious day. From all of us here, goodbye.
MUSIC: Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen.
MUSIC: Only You.
I will. I will. # All I needed was the love you gave
# All I needed for another day # And all I ever knew
# Only you.
CHEERING