Royal Wedding and FA Cup Final set to boost British economy by $1.7 billion

BRITS are gearing up for a party marathon after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced their wedding for FA Cup Final day — Saturday May 19.

The Sun reports, the double whammy is set to give the economy a £1 billion ($1.7 billion) boost

The royals are tipped to kick off their nuptials at noon with footy’s showpiece from 5.30pm.

Street parties and US tourists will ensure the mega bash lasts long into the night giving the economy a huge boost.

Party fever swept the UK yesterday after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gave the date for their big match at Windsor Castle.

Royalists, footy fans and Meghan-loving US tourists will spend fortunes celebrating at home or in the streets.

The UK will benefit from the two events being broadcast to an estimated 2.5 billion global TV audience

Expert David Haigh, of Brand Finance, said: “You are looking at it being worth between £500 million to £1 billion ($872 million to $1.7 billion).

“Meghan and Harry are exceptionally popular.

“We had 350,000 tourists for the last royal wedding, and 800,000 for the Diamond Jubilee in 2012. “Up to £150 million ($260 million) could be spent on champagne, food and drink alone. “It will also provide £100 million ($175 million) worth of global advertising for Britain.”

Retail sales leapt 17 per cent in the week of William and Kate’s wedding in April 2011. Giving formal confirmation yesterday, Kensington Palace said: “HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Ms Meghan Markle will marry on 19th May 2018. Today’s announcement follows earlier confirmation of the month of the wedding and its location at St George’s Chapel.”

The date lands between May 7 and 28 bank holidays. Insiders said the royal couple may opt for a noon start. A palace source said: “They were looking for a date that would work for as many friends and family as possible.

“We can’t confirm timings yet but are mindful it is Cup Final day.”

The FA hinted at a 5.30pm kick-off, saying: “May 19 promises to be a wonderful day with such a special royal occasion being followed by English football’s showpiece.”