Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were the only key figures missing from a dress rehearsal in Windsor ahead of the royal wedding.

Thousands of people turned out to get a flavour of how Saturday will unfold, when the newlyweds head on a 25-minute carriage ride through the town.

Royal Wedding preparations
Members of the armed forces parade around Windsor (Kirsty O’Connor/PA)

Some 250 members of the armed forces are expected to take part in Saturday’s festivities, and Thursday’s dry run gave organisers a chance to put some finishing touches to the event.

Roads around Windsor were closed as wellwishers basked beneath blue skies and beaming sunshine – weather that is expected to stay around for the weekend.

Royal Wedding preparations
Royal fans enjoy the show (Kirsty O’Connor/PA)

Press from around the world, tourists, locals and royal superfans watched from behind barriers as members of the military paraded around Windsor and up The Long Walk.

There was a heavy police presence with armed officers stationed around town and other officers on top of buildings looking over the crowds.

The procession included a horsedrawn carriage, setting the scene for what the world will see on Saturday when the newly married Harry and Ms Markle will be seen by the public after the ceremony.

Royal Wedding preparations
About 250 members of the armed forces are expected to take part in Saturday’s festivities (Kirsty O’Connor/PA)

The rehearsal came as Ms Markle spoke of her sadness that her father Thomas Markle would miss her big day.

“Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding,” she said.

“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.”

Mr Markle is still in Mexico where he is recovering after undergoing heart surgery on Wednesday to implant three stents.