Harry and Meghan star in emotional wedding service
WINDSOR, United Kingdom: US TV star Meghan Markle joined Britain’s Prince Harry at the altar on Saturday wearing a flowing white dress in from of a star
studded congregation as tens of thousands of fans cheered in the street and millions watched around the world.
Harry and the bride’s mother Doria Ragland looked visibly moved and the couple held hands as they exchanged vows in a ceremony led by Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.
Harry’s 92-year-old grandmother Queen Elizabeth 2nd and her husband Prince Philip were in attendance as Markle arrived in St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, wearing a long white veil and a glittering tiara.
Guests at the ceremony included singer Elton John, Hollywood star George Clooney, footballer David Beckham, tennis star Serena Williams and US talk show host Oprah Winfrey.
The 36-year-old bride walked up the aisle on her own before being joined half way by Harry’s father Prince Charles. Her own father pulled out amid a media row that overshadowed the meticulous palace preparations.
Tens of thousands of well- wishers cheered as Harry arrived at the church with his brother and best man Prince William, both wearing dark military uniforms.
Well-wishers camped overnight to secure the best spots to watch the newlyweds, who will take a ride in an open-topped carriage around Windsor after the ceremony.
Many in the crowds offered particular good wishes to the bride after her father had to miss the wedding due to health problems and a scandal over staged paparazzi pictures.
“After the week she’s had, she needs some support,” said Karen Wallace, 53, from Chicago, one of an estimated 100,000 members of the public attending the event.
The service in St George’s Chapel at noon ( 1100 GMT) mixed traditional Church of England ceremony with gospel music, with a choir singing “Stand By Me,” while a US pastor delivered the main address.
Markle’s ring was made with Welsh gold, as is traditional for royal weddings, while Harry’s was made of platinum.