Aisle walk confusion is settled

PRINCE Charles will walk Meghan Markle down the aisle after a week of Royal Wedding turmoil.

In a dramatic twist yesterday, Kensington Palace revealed Harry’s dad would step in for Meghan’s own father, Thomas Markle, who is recovering from heart surgery.

It was thought Meghan’s mother Doria Ragland might step in.

The order of service still lists Mr Markle as taking on the traditional role.

And it also lists one of the hymns as Stand By Me, with the ceremony taking on a more gospel feel than royal weddings of the past.

A statement from Kensington Palace said: “Ms Meghan Markle has asked His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to accompany her down the aisle of the Quire of St George’s Chapel on her wedding day.

“The Prince of Wales is pleased to be able to welcome Ms Markle to the Royal Family in this way.”

Doria, 62 – who jetted in from LA this week and met the Queen in Windsor for tea – had been the favourite with bookies to walk Meghan down the aisle.

Drama

Ex-husband Thomas, 73, had been embroiled in a “will he or won’t he” drama after it was revealed he staged paparazzi shots to boost his image.

Meghan eventually admitted her dad would not be attending her wedding after a heart scare so he can “focus on his health”.

It will not be the first time Charles has taken on the role.

He walked Lord Louis Mountbatten’s great grand-daughter Alexandra Knatchbull down the aisle two years ago.

Her dad Lord Brabourne was also too ill to attend. It means Doria will be the only member of Meghan’s family at the event.

Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan were snapped leaving Kensington Palace and arriving at Windsor. They went their separate ways last night with the Prince staying at the Coworth Park Hotel in Ascot, Berks, with best man Prince William.

Meghan settled in 30 minutes away at the Cliveden House Hotel with her mum.

The pair have invited 2,640 members of the public to watch them arrive at Windsor Castle.

Celebs set to attend include the Beckhams, Meghan’s Suits castmates and Sir Elton John, 71 – amid rumours he will sing in honour of Princess Diana.