William and Kate thank well wishers as final preparations put in place for wedding

The final rehearsals have wound up, the question of who designed the wedding dress is still a secret, and Order of Service has been published, as the nation counts down the hours to the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The couple have broken with tradition by penning their own message in the official royal wedding programme instead of having it written by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

In it, they speak of their hope for the day and thank supporters for their affection.

“We are both so delighted that you are able to join us in celebrating what we hope will be one of the happiest days of our lives,” the message reads.

“The affection shown to us by so many people during our engagement has been incredibly moving, and has touched us both deeply.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone most sincerely for their kindness.”

The couple have gone for a selection of traditional hymns and classical music by British composers.

Hymns include ‘Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer’, ‘Love Divine All Love Excelling’, ‘Jerusalem’, ‘Hastings Parry’.

Last-minute rehearsals were held today at the abbey, with Miss Middleton, Prince Harry, and bridesmaids present.

The Order of Service was published online today. The passage chosen from the Bible comes from Romans and includes the words: “Let love be genuine.”

Miss Middleton and her family are spending the night at the Goring Hotel tonight. The Queen is hosting foreign dignitaries at a dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, while Prince William dined earlier with Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Harry at Clarence House.

The pavements outside Westminster Abbey have become a makeshift campsite in the last few days for fans of the royal family, and crowds are already lining the procession route.