DAZZLING DISPLAY

From military fanfare to glittering gowns, the Royal Family welcome the U.S. president and first lady with unforgettable flourish

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Demonstrating their growing role on the international stage, the Prince and Princess of Wales were front and centre of a historic and controversial state visit.

Prince William and Kate, both 43, were the designated greeters for Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, as the U.S. president and first lady landed in the Walled Garden of Windsor Home Park in the Marine One helicopter, and escorted them to meet the King and Queen at nearby Victoria House.

The American head of state, 79 who was charmed by Prince William when they met in Paris last November - patted his arm as they shook hands, saying, “Hello, my friend. How are you?” He told Kate, “You’re so beautiful.”

The party then travelled to Windsor Castle in a spectacular carriage procession, led by the King and the president in the Irish State Coach and the Queen and the first lady in the Scottish State Coach. The prince and princess followed in a semi-state landau with the U.S. ambassador and his wife.

SPECIAL SALUTE

As the carriages swept into the castle's Quadrangle, an "extra-large" guard of honour - made up of the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and Scots Guards gave a royal salute, and the countries' national anthems were played.

On the dais, alongside the King and Queen, Donald saluted and Melania put a hand on her heart as “The Star-Spangled Banner” rang out. The president was then invited to inspect the troops by their captain, Lt. Col. Storm Green of the Coldstream Guards, whom he thanked profusely.

“Watch the sword!” joked the King as the lieutenant-colonel raised his blade to his bearskin in response.

After a private lunch inside, there was the traditional exchange of gifts. The Trumps brought a replica of a President Eisenhower sword for the King and a vintage Tiffany diamond-and-ruby flower brooch for the Queen.