This expense was argued as a needed precaution by the monarchy, to deal with the thousands that descended on London, the possible threat of terrorism, and of course the projected campaign from students to stop the impending tuition fee rise.
Amidst thousands of police units lining the streets, another branch of protection was drafted in for the day’s events – the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC).
Because of security reasons, the Kent based informant will remain anonymous, but this exclusive interview still provides a behind-the-scenes insight into Her Majesty’s protection.
Aside from the mammoth events on Friday, what is your usual role in the CNC?
Well, usually I don't get contracted to events as such, as my role is with the CNC, and therefore am responsible for protecting the countries nuclear sites and equipment. However, because of the importance of the event, and that we have licensed firearms officers we were drafted in to assist, given the importance of the event.
What was your exact role for the day in ensuring everything went as planned?
Our role was pretty specific, to guard the route being taken and provide armed support should something happen, which fortunately it didn't. If you watched it you would have seen the Met Police in their ceremonial uniforms watching the well wishers and keeping the crowds under control. We were stationed throughout the route (myself included plain clothed and ready to deploy if required).
I was positioned outside the Abbey so was responsible for ensuring that nothing untoward happened as the guests arrived. We were at the side entrance where the guests entered, and obviously completed security checks on the guests that entered.
After this we went around to the entrance that would be used by the Royals and provided necessary support there. We didn't have direct involvement there as they had their own protection (the guys in the Land Rovers). As a result it meant we got a good glimpse of the bride before her groom, and I must say she was simple stunning, the maid of honour wasn't too shabby either!
Whilst the wedding was taking place we made our way towards the Palace to be prepared for when the masses arrived to see the family on the balcony. Here we supplied simple crowd control. That was pretty much all I did, when the Royals went in we headed off and left the Met to ensure order as the Royals were all safely away in Buckingham Palace.
What were your preparations before the events to keep everything running smoothly?
Before the big day, I only had one day’s involvement and that was to ensure the route was safe. This was a task completed daily and basically we were required to walk the route and check every possible place where there could be a potential threat and mark it off as checked and secure. This was done as I said, on a daily basis, and if any of the seals were broken then it would have indicated a potential threat (fortunately there wasn't anything). It was only the one day for me, but I know that colleagues were doing this for the whole week beforehand.
While nothing severely threatened the peace, cameras did catch one miscreant intent on five minutes of fame.
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