Meghan Markle to start bridal procession alone and will not be 'given away' by Prince Charles, in feminist statement

Prince Charles expected to stand back as bride approaches groom

Meghan Markle will start the bridal procession at her wedding to Prince Harry by herself, in an effort to make a feminist statement.

The Independent understands Ms Markle will begin by walking on her own, before a member of the clergy meets her at the West Door of St George’s Chapel.

She will subsequently be joined by her 10 young bridesmaids and page boys, a procession that will include her future nephew and niece, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

Once she reaches the Quire, the Prince of Wales will escort her towards her husband-to-be but will not "give her away" - and will stand back as she approaches Prince Harry.

The original plan would have seen Ms Markle’s father, Thomas Markle, walk her down the aisle after she walked the first part alone.

Kensington Palace today announced Prince Charles would be taking on the role, as Mr Markle is unable to attend the wedding after undergoing a heart operation this week.

According to the statement issued by the palace, Ms Markle personally asked her future father-in-law to carry out the responsibility of walking her down the aisle.

Some had speculated that Ms Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, would take Mr Markle’s place instead.

Kensington Palace said Prince Charles was happy to perform the duty of walking Ms Markle down the aisle.

“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.”

It was previously reported that Mr Markle wanted to attend the wedding, having earlier said that he would miss the nuptials following claims he had collaborated with the paparazzi to stage a seemingly candid series of photographs.

The palace later confirmed he would not be present in a statement provided by Ms Markle.

"Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding," Ms Markle said, following reports that her father was due to undergo a heart operation this week.

"I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health.

"I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support.

"Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you on Saturday."

In 2011, the Duchess of Cambridge was walked down the aisle by her father, Michael Middleton.