Amid the throngs of well-wishers already gathering outside Westminster Abbey to catch a glimpse of William and Kate will be one man in the crowd whose dedication to the royal family sets him apart from the rest.
John Loughrey, who has lived in Wandsworth for almost 50 years, has followed the monarchy’s every move since he was five years old.
Now 56, the Earlsfield resident has been camping opposite the abbey since Monday, and says he has received endless support from the public.
He said: “When I first set up camp, I only had a sleeping bag and it was a bit uncomfortable sleeping on the floor. But someone gave me an inflatable mattress, which has made sleeping a lot easier.”
Mr Loughrey has been proudly showing off a teddy bear, resplendent in a navy uniform, and a giant costume jewellery ring - a replica of Kate’s engagement stone - to crowds of passersby and members of the press since he picked his viewing spot.
He said: “I’ve got the couple right here. I was given them as a gift by a mysterious well-wisher.”
When asked by an inquisitive tourist if the Queen may have sent them herself, he replied: “Well, I guess she might have. I’d love to give them to William and Catherine myself, as a gift for their wedding.”
Mr Loughrey, who lives in Steerforth Street, reminisced how he first fell in love with the royal family.
He said: “My mother and father both loved the royal family and so I grew up with having them in my life.
“I’ve been supporting the monarchy ever since I was a little boy in school. They’ve been a constant presence wherever I go.”
His dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has been dubbed “Diana superfan” by the media, and famously attended every day of the six-month long inquest into her death.
But the borough resident rubbishes claims he is in it for the glory.
Mr Loughrey said: “I’ve never asked for all this attention, the media just seem to follow me.”
Nevertheless, he is only too happy to gush over the late princess.
He said: “I used to love Diana’s cheeky smile. I thought she was absolutely wonderful - all her charity work was inspirational.”
Mr Loughrey added: “I think she would be very proud of seeing Prince Harry as best man and she will be with William and Catherine on the day, wherever she is.
“I just hope the weather will hold out. I don’t mind getting wet, but I certainly don’t want the bride to.”
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Kate’s wedding dress, and Mr Loughrey has a few predictions of his own about what the bride will be wearing.
He said: “I can see her wearing a light cream dress, with colourful flowers embroidered down the side, and a beautiful long veil. Whatever she wears, I know it will be elegant.
“It would not surprise me if I shed a few tears.”
Mr Loughrey added: “We want one massive party to celebrate. Let’s show the world how to have a good time.”
The avid fan will be celebrating outside Buckingham Palace, and won’t be going home until at least Saturday, meaning he will have spent five nights sleeping rough.
He said: “I don’t usually drink at all, but I might have a little drink of wine - just to raise a toast to the bride and groom.”
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