The royals have welcomed Kent Gurkhas to the ceremony of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.

Folkestone’s 1st Battalion of the Royal Gurkha Rifles, who Prince Harry served with in Afghanistan 2007, will join UK military divisions on May 19.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said all the units involved hold a “great significance” for the prince.

“Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle are pleased that members of the armed forces will play such a special role in their wedding.

“The military, and these units in particular, hold a great significance for Prince Harry and the couple are incredibly grateful for their support,” they said.

Prince Harry has previously said he wanted to join the Gurkhas himself but missed the chance because of timing.

And last year he was was reunited at Buckingham Palace with the Major Chancre Bahadur Pun who guarded him during his first Afghanistan tour.

More than 250 members of the Armed Forces will perform ceremonial duties at the wedding.

The Gurkhas and other military outfits will line the streets within Windsor Castle.

Members of the Household Cavalry will form a staircase party at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle as part of the wedding.

The State Trumpeters and a Captain’s Escort from the Household Cavalry will also provide ceremonial support.

Prince Harry joined The Blues and Royals in 2016 and served with the Household Cavalry Regiment, undertaking two tours of Afghanistan and rising to the rank of Captain.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, chief of defence staff said he is particularly pleased members held closely to Prince Harry’s heart were invited.

He said:“I am proud that members of the Armed Forces have been asked to take part in the ceremonial celebrations taking place on the royal couple’s wedding day.

“It is a happy occasion for the whole country and reminds us of the role the armed forces play in marking important events in the life of the nation.

“I am particularly pleased to hear that members of the armed forces who have a close relationship with Prince Harry will be taking part.”