Horse and carriage for newly-wed UK royals

Britain’s Prince Harry and his US bride Meghan Markle will have a public horse-drawn carriage ride after marrying in Windsor Castle on May 19, according to Kensington Palace.

Following a midday ceremony in St George’s Chapel, the newlyweds will make a “short journey” by carriage through the town of Windsor, leaving the castle at 1pm, it said.

“Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are hugely grateful for the many good wishes they have received since announcing their engagement,” the palace said in a statement on Sunday.

“They are very much looking forward to the day and to being able to share their celebrations with the public. They hope this short journey will provide an opportunity for more people to come together around Windsor and to enjoy the atmosphere of this special day.”

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, the Church of England’s spiritual leader, will officiate as the couple take their marriage vows, while the Dean of Windsor, David Conner, will conduct the wedding service.

The ceremony comes on the same day as the FA Cup Final and fans will be relieved to find that any clash is highly unlikely as the showpiece football match kicks off later in the day.

As president of the Football Association, Harry’s brother Prince William usually attends the cup final and presents the trophy but may not do it this year given the date clash.