3,000 cheering fans no match for Harry’s 100,000

A turnout as high as the 100,0000 for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s wedding at the same venue in May had never been expected.

but the crowds lining the streets of Windsor for Princess eugenie’s nuptials yesterday appeared smaller than anticipated – estimated at up to 3,000.

they were around ten-deep on parts of the procession route, but further down the road that thinned considerably. early arrivals found themselves outnumbered by police officers.

local businesses had been warned to expect thousands more, with one pub landlord saying he had been told there could be up to 25,000 spectators.

the modest turnout – on a Friday compared to Prince Harry and Meghan’s Saturday wedding – is set to fuel the debate over the cost of security for the event, which has been estimated at £2million. but the well-wishers who did turn up were determined not to let the numbers affect their enjoyment.

tessa Shiell, 54, of lewes, east Sussex, said: ‘i came early with my two sisters at 6.30am.

‘We got here early in case there were big crowds, but there were very, very few people when we arrived – about 60. i was quite surprised.

‘i came for Harry and Meghan’s wedding in May and that was chock-ablock. i thought there’d be more people attending this one. the security’s costing a lot, but she is a granddaughter of the Queen so i think she deserves it.’

tina Howe, 41, from Manchester, and a friend arrived at 7am. She said: ‘She’s a princess, it’s her big day – no matter how many people have come to watch – and we’re excited for her.’