Meghan Markle's father 'honoured and grateful' that Prince Charles will walk his daughter down aisle

Thomas Markle reportedly kept the news a secret so his daughter could announce it herself

Following the announcement that Meghan Markle will be escorted down the aisle by Prince Charles, her father has reportedly said he is “honoured and grateful.”

Speaking to TMZ, Thomas Markle said he spoke on the phone with his daughter and Prince Harry on Thursday, at which point he gave them his blessing since he cannot attend the wedding himself due to a heart condition.

According to Mr Markle, he was informed of his daughter’s plan to ask the Prince of Wales to walk her down the aisle during their phone call but kept it a secret so she could announce it herself.

He also reportedly said that he has no “reservations or shock” about Meghan’s choice, despite many assuming Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, would step in to do the honour.

Markle will begin her bridal procession by herself, in a feminist statement, and will then be joined by her 10 bridesmaids and page boys.

Once she reaches the Quire of St George’s Chapel, Prince Charles will escort her the rest of the way to her soon-to-be husband, Prince Harry.

He will not “give her away,” however, and will instead step back.

The change in plans comes after Meghan confirmed in a statement earlier this week that her father would not be attending the wedding due to issues related to his health.

According to a statement released today by Kensington Palace, Ms Markle asked her future father-in-law personally if he would step in for her father.

“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," it states.

“The Prince of Wales is pleased to be able to welcome Ms Markle to the Royal Family in this way."