Meghan Markle ‘will walk alone’ down first half of aisle before meeting Prince Charles
Written by News on 18/05/2018
Meghan Markle is set to break with royal tradition and walk down much of St George’s Chapel alone, according to reports.
The former Suits actress, 36, will meet Prince Charles halfway at the church’s quire – the top end of the church where the clergy and choir are usually seated.
The bride-to-be is expected to make a bold statement and walk down the nave of the church without a chaperone while being followed by her young bridesmaids and page boys.
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Royal commentators on Twitter were quick to come to the conclusion after Windsor Castle confirmed Prince Charles would walk Meghan down “the aisle of the quire of St George’s chapel”.
Prince Harry’s father is expected to accompany her down the section of the church – where the main royal guests will be seated – all the way up to the altar, where she will exchange vows with her 33-year-old fiance.
The last-minute change comes after the news Meghan’s father, Thomas Markle, would no longer attend the ceremony on medical advice after undergoing heart surgery.
In a statement on Thursday, the bride-to-be said: “Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding. I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health.”
Prince Charles is said to be “pleased” to step in and welcome the Hollywood star to the Royal Family by giving her away.
A palace statement on Friday read: “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.”
Prince Charles has prior experience of walking a bride-to-be down the aisle. Two years ago he gave away one of his close friend’s daughters – Alexandra Knatchbull – after her dad was reportedly not well enough to do so himself.
Friday’s announcement followed speculation Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, would be stepping in for her father.
Meghan is thought to be first royal bride to walk unescorted down the nave of a chapel during their wedding ceremony.
:: Sky News is broadcasting live from Windsor with all the build-up to the royal wedding, with exclusive live coverage of the wedding in UHD in a special programme from 9am to 3pm on Sky News and Sky One on Saturday.
(c) Sky News 2018: Meghan Markle ‘will walk alone’ down first half of aisle before meeting Prince Charles
