by Gerry Warren

A huge security operation is being planned for the arrival of Prince Charles and David Cameron to Canterbury next month.

Although not officially confirmed, the pair are expected to be among hundreds of VIPs from around the world attending the enthronement of the new Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby (pictured right) on March 21.

The ceremony will be held in Canterbury Cathedral, with 2,000 people set to attend.

Police spokesman Jon Green said: “The scale of this operation and the number of police officers involved will reflect the importance of the event and the associated safety and security issues that need to be considered.

“We are working with Canterbury Cathedral and the city council on plans to ensure all those attending the event can do so in a safe and secure environment.”

The police cannot reveal further specific measures, but both armed and Special Branch officers are likely to be involved.

Cathedral spokesman Chris Robinson said arrangements for the 90-minute service have been under way for months – even before Archbishop Welby was appointed.

He said: “The enthronement of a new Archbishop is one of the biggest events at the cathedral. But we can only fit in 2,000 people.

“Two days later there will be another service especially for members of the Canterbury Diocese, when the new Archbishop will have a chance to meet and talk to them.”

The Cathedral precincts will be closed to the public on March 21, but bystanders are expected to line Burgate and the Buttermarket hoping to catch sight of arriving VIPs.

Canterbury Cathedral, where the enthronement takes place next month

The enthronement has several key features: the new Archbishop has to knock on the Great Door with his crook to be allowed into the cathedral.

He will swear an oath on the Canterbury Gospels – a book brought to the city by St Augustine in the 6th century.

Choristers are rehearsing the music, which will include a piece especially written for the service by composer Michael Berkeley.