IT'S almost five years ago to the day that they took the plunge and walked up the aisle themselves.

Now Edward and Sophie, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, have been invited to open a Hampshire exhibition celebrating the 450th wedding anniversary of two of their ancestors.

The royal couple will bring a touch of the 21st century to the ceremony at Winchester Cathedral on June 29.

Mary Tudor and Philip II of Spain tied the knot there on July 25, 1554, in one of the most sumptuous society events the city has seen.

The opening ceremony will herald the start of a two-month exhibition at the cathedral of treasures and artefacts from the wedding and exploring its impact on the city.

A varied programme of talks, tours, and hands-on activities will also offer a fresh look at the politics and religion, dress, music, architecture and food from the period.

Highlights include a lecture on July 2 from eminent historian and broadcaster Dr David Starkey about the union of the two countries.

Wedding dresses from the last century will also be on display at the cathedral throughout August. The star attraction will be a replica of Mary Tudor's gown.

The historic event was a huge cost to the city and to make up for this Mary Tudor gave the City Mill to Winchester.

The mill will mark the big occasion from July 24 to August 1 with Tudor music, food, re-enactments, talks and displays.

The wedding weekend, July 24 and 25, will be brought to life with two days of living history at Wolvesey Castle.

Visitors will be able to meet the "ordinary" people of Tudor Winchester and hear their views of the wedding.

Edward and Sophie's own wedding may not have been quite such a grand affair but they certainly did not skimp on luxuries.

They got married on June 19, 1999, and enjoyed a lavish reception at Windsor Castle for 550 guests.

The menu included coulibiac (smoked haddock baked with rice and mushrooms in pastry), beef stroganoff, and a selection of vegetables and salads, with fresh raspberries for dessert.

Music during the evening was provided by a string quartet from the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and a brass ensemble from the London Mozart Players.

For further information on the anniversary celebrations, contact Winchester Tourist Information Centre on 01962 840500.