WESTMINSTER ABBEY has already welcomed its first guest for the royal wedding – south London chef John Loughrey.


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The “loyal royal” from Wandsworth claimed his prime spot outside the Abbey last night and plans to camp out until Friday when Prince William and bride-to-be Kate Middleton arrive for the ceremony.

“I have always been loyal to the Royal Family,” said Loughrey, 56, who has for company a sleeping bag and two carrier-bags worth of belongings.

“I think they [the royals, not the carrier bags] are good for Britain and good for tourism. We have had them for more than 1,000 years and they make a great contribution to the life of this country.”

Though Loughrey was a big follower of Diana, Princess of Wales, throughout her bitter divorce from Prince Charles, his marriage optimism levels are still high.

“[Will and Kate] have taken their time over marriage, unlike the Prince’s late mother,” he said.

“[Diana] got married far too young. The Prince has learned from his mother to take his time.”