Royal wedding: Police warn public not to be alarmed by increased security for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Windsor ceremony

Barriers to stop vehicle terror attacks to be used alongside armed police and searches

Police are urging the public not to be “alarmed” by mounting security ahead of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

British Transport Police will be patrolling incoming trains and railway stations, and everyone arriving in Windsor on 19 May will be screened and searched.

“Any items that may pose a risk to the public will be removed,” a spokesperson said.

“The public should be reassured and not alarmed by this, as these are all part of our measures to keep people safe.”

Armed officers, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, sniffer dogs and mounted police are among the protections being deployed as the couple marry at St George’s Chapel, in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Thames Valley Police said the thousands of people expected to flock to the area to watch the wedding, carriage procession and reception at St George’s Hall may be stopped at random.

Officers will be using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) on vehicles, CCTV and “many security measures that you can’t see”.

The measures are intended to guard against the threat of terror attacks using vehicles and other weapons on dense crowds of spectators, as well as protecting the royal family themselves.

The police presence in Windsor has already started to increase, with the arrival of unarmed and armed officers, search dogs, mounted police, the roads policing unit and helicopters.

Thames Valley Police said the operation was one of the largest in its history, with more than 100,000 visitors from around the world expected to pour into Windsor, but insisted its response to other incidents would not be affected.

Officers urged residents, local business and visitors to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or items.

Other forces including the Metropolitan Police and Surrey Police are supporting the operation and specialist units are moving in from across the country.

Assistant Chief Constable David Hardcastle, strategic commander for the wedding, said his force has a long history of policing royal events including the annual Windsor Garter Ceremony, state visits and the Queen’s birthday.

“The wedding of Prince Harry and Ms Markle is no exception,” he added.

“We are working with our partners, local businesses and the community to deliver a safe, secure and happy event for everyone.”