A YOUNG Kendal Scout leader and his mum are counting down the days until Saturday, May 19 when they will join Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding celebrations from inside the walls of Windsor Castle.

Josh McLeod, 24, said he could hardly believe it when an embossed cream envelope arrived from the Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria's office with the exciting news. He is among 1,200 members of the public who have been nominated "on the strength of their contribution to their local community".

Josh and mum Sue are now the proud owners of two coveted green entry cards inviting them to watch as the prince and his American bride-to-be arrive at St George's Chapel to repeat their vows in front of 600 guests, including Her Majesty The Queen.

"When I got this letter from the Lord-Lieutenant I knew it was something important but I hadn't got a clue what it would be," said Josh, a leader at 1st Kendal Scouts who also has district and county Scouting responsibilities.

"It was just a shock, it was unreal and I didn't know what to do because it's not what you expect when you come home from work. I got straight on the phone to Mum."

Josh's parents, Sue and Andrew, run the popular Sundial Guest House on Kendal's Milnthorpe Road. He is full of praise for their tireless support of his roles in Scouting and his charity work with the Newman Holiday Trust, organising summer breaks for 22 children with special needs each year. He described his mum as his "back-up" in everything he does.

Mum Sue, an admirer of the Royal family, told the Gazette how "pleased" she was at Josh being recognised. She said she was looking forward to the atmosphere, meeting the crowds and seeing the Queen, adding: "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I just hope it's a nice day."

Behind the scenes, Josh's name was put forward by Cumbria Scouts county commissioner Eddie Ward, who described the 24-year-old as "a worthy recipient" because of his "efforts and enthusiasm" in Scouting.

Josh joined the Beavers aged five and worked his way up to become an adult leader at 18. Along with a team of volunteers he runs 1st Kendal Scouts, as well as having district and county duties.

"It's an unreal excitement to be invited," said the former Queen Katherine School student, "and there's also the realisation that someone has recognised me as being the person they wanted to nominate. It's a huge honour."

As luck would have it, Josh and his parents had already planned a London theatre break long before Harry and Meghan set a date, having booked tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child 18 months ago.

On May 19, the family will catch an early train from London to Windsor, where Sue and Josh will join other charity workers, community champions and members of the public inside the castle walls from 8am, picnic lunch in hand. Dad Andrew, meanwhile, hopes to watch from one of the big screens in Windsor.

"There is no formal dress code but I think it's only right to treat myself to something new because I'm only going to go to one Royal wedding," said Josh. "If I can't buy a new suit for that, what can I buy it for? Mum's already got her dress and fascinator ready."

Once the newlyweds have departed by carriage after the midday ceremony, Josh, Sue and the public will be admitted into St George's Chapel to see the flowers, before departing around 2.30pm.

Prince Harry, 33, and former actress Ms Markle, 36, have said they want their wedding day to be shaped so members of the public can "feel part of the celebrations too". The couple asked for people to be chosen "from a broad range of backgrounds and ages, including young people who have shown strong leadership, and those who have served their communities".

A total of 2,640 people will be welcomed inside the castle walls, including school children and Royal household staff. The wedding has been described by a Royal spokesman as "a moment of fun and joy that will reflect the characters and values of the bride and groom".

British couture designers Ralph & Russo are the bookies' favourites to design Ms Markle's gown. There are to be two receptions: an afternoon gathering for 600, hosted by the Queen at Windsor, and an evening party for 200 close friends and family, thrown by Prince Charles at nearby Frogmore House.

East London pastry chef Claire Ptak is to bake the organic lemon-and-elderflower wedding cake, and wedding planning company Bridebook has put an estimated price tag of £32 million on the proceedings.

Saturday, May 19 is also the day of the FA Cup Final between Man Utd and Chelsea, which is to kick-off at Wembley at 5.15pm.