THE bunting is on order and the champagne is on ice, because with less than three weeks to go Gwent's royal wedding preparations are in full swing.

Councils say more than 25 street parties are now planned across Gwent, plus many more celebrations in pubs, clubs and community centres, as Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot.

In Pontllanfraith, the residents of Bryn Road are gearing up for a street party for more than 80 guests on April 29.

Organiser Kristyn Harris said neighbours are donating £10 each for the party, which will include a huge spread of food, bunting, flags, royal-themed T-shirts and a giant model of Big Ben. Much of the food and decorations have been dedicated by local firms.

She said: "The spirit in the community has been fantastic, and it's helped us get to know our neighbours again. We think there should be more royal weddings!"

Baneswell Community Centre in Newport is also getting ready to celebrate the future king's wedding a few days later with a buffet, disco, and games on May 2.

The party will be complete with commemorative mugs for guests to remember the occasion by.

Diane Burrows from the centre said: "It should be a great day for everyone."

Schools will also be celebrating the prince and princesses big day before they break up for the Easter holiday.

Blaenavon's Hillside Primary School will be acting out the wedding at the village's St Paul's Church on April 14, with pupils and teachers playing the roles of Prince William, Kate, the Queen and Prince Phillip.

But for Natasha Powell and Daniel Whittaker, the build up to April 29 will be tense for more personal reasons as the couple will be getting married themselves that day at St Mary's Church in Newport.

The couple, who are both 25, booked the date a year ago.

Miss Powell, who met her fiancée at the Celtic Manor where they both work, said: "It's stolen the limelight a little bit but at least people will always remember it."

She said she plans to record the royal wedding so she can watch it at a later date.

Gwent's street parties

Newport

  • Ten street party applications received. Confirmed street parties include Park View
  • Gardens and Church Crescent in Bassaleg, and Tone Road in Bettws

Torfaen

  • Four street party applications have been received

Blaenau Gwent

  • Alfred Street, Ebbw Vale

Monmouthshire

  • Monkswell Road, Monmouth
  • St Helens Close, Abergavenny
  • Blenheim Drive, Magor
  • Castle Lea, Caldicot
  • Main Road, Mathern
  • St Maur Gardens, Chepstow
  • Buckle Wood, Chepstow
  • Lilac Drive, Monmouth

Caerphilly

  • Bryn Road, Pontllanfraith
  • St Rhidian Close Blackwood
  • Railway Terrace Abercarn