Prince William gets gun guard; Kate to fend for herself

DUNCAN LARCOMBE, JOHN The Sun 04/26/2011 18:14

A BODYGUARD dressed as a liveried footman will ride on William and Kate's wedding coach - with orders to act as "bullet catcher" in the event of an attack.

The armed royal protection cop would be expected to hurl his body over William and sacrifice himself as a last resort to prevent the Prince being killed or wounded.

Met chiefs have considered putting TWO armed guards on the coach. But Kate would probably have to fend for herself in an emergency because the other "postillion" will be a genuine royal servant.

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A royal protection source said: "It is a terrible dilemma because the real servant is trained to handle the horses and would have to calm them. The only other option is for a closed, bullet-proof coach - but this was ruled out.

William and Kate know that, whatever the danger, tens of thousands of people lining the route want to be able to see them."

Protection officers have also been told they will not be criticised if they draw their weapons in a false alarm.

The source said: "Better they have their weapons at the ready than react too late."

Source

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