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Thames Valley Police 'ring of steel' in place with 2,500 officers stationed in Windsor today.

Thames Valley Police will mount its largest ever operation today as the Royal Wedding gets under way in Windsor.

Months of planning will see officers protect the 2.6 mile route with Prince Harry and his bride Meghan Markle expected to be welcomed by more than 150,000 people.

The massive police operation will see a “ring of steel” surround the town centre and St George's Chapel.

The force says neighbourhood officers have patrolled Windsor town centre all week to engage with members of the public, answering any questions they may about the event.

Inspector Andy Amor, who co-ordinated the patrols, said: “Our officers have been out and about in the town, on patrol, talking to members of the public.

“These patrols are very much business as usual for us, however, they are all part of our security measures to ensure that everyone coming to Windsor for the Royal Wedding on Saturday has a safe and happy day.

“Thames Valley Police is experienced at policing large scale events such as this.

“I’m really pleased and proud to be involved in policing this event. Windsor is a fantastic town in which to live and work, and our officers are very much looking forward to Saturday and focussed on making sure that the event is secure and enjoyable for everyone involved.”

The force has banned confetti saying the tradition posed a "potential security risk" but was also a "bit of a pain to clean up".

Crowds in central London threw confetti during the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's wedding day in 2011.

Prince William and Prince Harry also showered their father Prince of Wales and stepmother the Duchess of Cornwall with confetti as the newlyweds left Windsor Castle on the evening of their wedding in 2005.

The Civil Aviation Authority has granted a request by Thames Valley Police for a Restriction of Flying Regulation in the vicinity of the Windsor Castle estate, banning aircraft below 2,500 feet.

This will stop drones and light aircraft entering the airspace, but will not affect commercial jets as they operate at a higher altitude.

The restriction is in place for 24 hours from 5am today. 

Exemptions are in place for the emergency services and media organisations.

Last month Thames Valley Police Federation chairman Craig O’Leary told Police Oracle he was  “absolutely confident” the force would be able handle the royal wedding - despite concerns over resources.

Mr O’Leary said policing the event will be the “biggest single commitment” the force has ever undertaken.

He said: “This is a big undertaking of resources on policing and operationally there are thousands of officers taking part, but it is business as usual.

“The force has put the right measures and resources in place. Hopefully we shouldn’t face anymore challenges than this and deliver a safe royal wedding for everyone.

“There may be teething problems on the day, but nothing we can’t overcome.”

The force will face challenges in cover with more than 2,500 officers stationed in Windsor on the day.

Officers will work 12-hour shifts - the majority on route-lining duties. 

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