Prince William and Kate Middleton brought their public celebrations of their wedding service to a crescendo by kissing twice on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

They were cheered by thousands of well-wishers – many who had camped for days – gathered outside the palace, whilst RAF planes flew past in honour of the new couple. More than a million people descended on central London for the historic occasion.

Some 1,900 guests watched the couple exchange their vows in the abbey, with many millions watching at home.

Celebrities spotted at Westminster Abbey included David Furnish and his partner Sir Elton John, former England football captain David Beckham and his wife Victoria, film director Guy Ritchie and the actor Rowan Atkinson.

UK Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha, Australian prime minister Julia Gillard, former British PM Sir John Major, and current Home Secretary Theresa May were among the politicians present. Mr Cameron did not cause an etiquette upset and wore a morning suit despite initial suggestions he might not.

For those lining the route, large speakers broadcast the wedding service, and it was anticipated the event would be watched by hundreds of millions of people worldwide on television.

The Queen hosted a buffet reception at Buckingham Palace for 650 guests this afternoon. The new couple headed back to Clarence House before returning to the palace for a more intimate evening reception for close friends and family.

Prince William has been given the title of the Duke of Cambridge by the Queen, and Miss Middleton has become Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cambridge.