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Prince William and Kate Middleton will invite 100 members of the public to their wedding via a random draw.

The couple - who will tie the knot in a lavish ceremony at London's Westminster Abbey on April 29 next year - want the British people to be deeply involved in the celebrations and are delighted their plan of inviting a selection of ordinary citizens has been approved.

A source involved with the St James's Palace planning committee revealed: "William and Kate wanted the British people involved at a deeper level than simply holding street parties.

"They were crystal clear on this from the outset and were delighted when the idea of a random selection was mooted.

"Those lucky enough to land an invitation will only find out when it drops on their door mat. Can you imagine? It's like winning a Willy Wonka Golden Ticket for your front-row seat in history."

Along with receiving an invitation to the royal ceremony, the lucky 100 guests - who will mix with a host of international royals and heads of state expected to include US President Barack Obama - will also attend the reception which will reportedly be held at Buckingham Palace.

The source added to The Sun newspaper: "The fortunate few will become the envy of their neighbourhood.

"They will rub shoulders with royalty and world leaders - what a thing to tell your grandchildren."

It has not yet been decided how the invited members of the public will be chosen.

Meanwhile William's younger brother, Prince Harry will take on the role of Supporter for his brother.

A royal source said: "It will be an incredibly emotional day for Harry as well as William.

"They will both be thinking about how proud their mother Princess Diana would be if she had lived to see this wedding. People sometimes forget what those boys have been through. William couldn't have chosen anyone else."

Royals usually choose two Supporters or Best Men but it is unclear if William will follow this tradition.

The source explained: "William is very much his own man. He is undecided if he will go for another Supporter or who that will be."

If William does choose it is likely his best friend Thomas van Straubenzee will share the duties with Harry, 26