The royal wedding sparked an enormous amount of interest and excitement in West Dorset.

Mountjoy School, Beaminster, held a royal wedding celebration day, which involved a day of fun activities in honour of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Pupils started with the challenge of creating a wedding table decoration which was judged by chairman of governors, Gill Acton.

The children took part in workshops all morning, learning about what to wear to a wedding, what to eat and how to dance. The day culminated in a wedding ceremony and reception in the school hall with a reverend, bride, groom, bridesmaids and wedding guests. Reverend Jo Neary performed the marriage ceremony while the assembled pupils as wedding guests looked on and applauded.

Teaching assistant Davina Pennels said: “The children had so much fun and I think we really gave them a sense of what it’s like to go to a wedding. It may not have been a real royal wedding but it was lovely to see the children getting so much enjoyment from the experience.”

Mountjoy School caters for children with a range of complex needs.

Headteacher Jackie Shanks said: “This week the children have learnt about wedding ceremonies from many different cultures and religions. My grateful thanks go to the staff, all of whom dressed in wedding outfits, hats and fascinators for the day and threw themselves enthusiastically into all the days events."

Residents at a care home also went all out to celebrate the wedding.

Staff and residents at Coneygar Lodge, Bridport, gathered for the big day on Saturday.

Residents, their friends, family and staff were invited to spend the day watching the event at the home, where themed decorations and a spread of food were on offer for all to enjoy.

James Cross, director at the home, said: "The Prosecco and Pimms flowed on what proved to be a popular and thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. Many thanks to the staff for all their hard work. The heartfelt thanks and happy faces said it all."