Royal wedding 2018: Thousands watch Windsor dress rehearsal for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's nuptials

Sophie Williams17 May 2018

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were the only key figures missing from a dress rehearsal in Windsor today ahead of the royal wedding.

Thousands of people turned out to get a flavour of how Saturday will unfold, when the newlyweds head on a 25-minute carriage ride through the town.

Some 250 members of the armed forces are expected to take part in Saturday's festivities, and Thursday's dry run gave organisers a chance to put some finishing touches to the event.

Roads around Windsor were closed as wellwishers basked beneath blue skies and beaming sunshine - weather that is expected to stay around for the weekend.

Royal Wedding rehearsal - In pictures

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Tourists, locals and royal superfans watched from behind barriers as members of the military paraded around Windsor and up The Long Walk.

People watch the rehearsal outside Windsor Castle 
Jeremy Selwyn

There was a heavy police presence with armed officers stationed around town and other officers on top of buildings looking over the crowds.

A dress rehearsal for the carriage procession in Windsor ahead of the royal wedding
Reuters

Images from today's rehearsal show members of the armed forces marching through the town.

While horses and carriages have been pictured making their way along the route the couple will take during the carriage procession after the wedding ceremony.

Horses make their way through Windsor during the dress rehearsal for the royal wedding
Jeremy Selwyn

Earlier today Meghan Markle confirmed in a statement that her father would not be attending her wedding.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will marry in Windsor on Saturday
AFP/Getty Images

She said: "I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health.

"I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support. Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you."

Royal fans have already started camping out on the streets outside the castle in order to snag the best view.

Royal Wedding fans sleeping on the streets of Windsor - In pictures

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The council has issued a ban on tents. Well-wishers have been pictured camping out with only a roll mat and a sleeping bag as they braved chilly temperatures overnight.

Royal Wedding: Souvenirs and memorabilia - In pictures

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It is thought that 60,000 people are expected to travel to Windsor by train.

Great Western Railway previously urged passengers to travel "early and travel light" with some well-wishers urged to start their journey as early as 4am.

Royal Wedding: Horses and Carriages - In pictures

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The council advises that visitors taking the train need to book ahead and allow for extra time.

The weather for the big day is set to be around 21C with "widespread sunshine" according to the Met Office.

The forecast will be welcome news to the tens of thousands of people who are expected to descend on the town for the celebrations.

“High pressure is in charge this weekend, so there will be dry and fine weather across the country,” Met Office forecaster Bonnie Diamond told the Standard.

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