Kate Middleton 'marries Prince Harry' on souvenir mug
It is one piece of memorabilia that even the most dedicated of royal enthusiasts may choose to avoid.
For beaming out from the side of this particular mug designed to celebrate the forthcoming royal nuptials are bride-to-be Kate Middleton – and her soon to be brother-in-law, Prince Harry.
Photographs of the pair are feature side by side, adorned with suitably royal flourishes and scrolls depicting their names.
But few could fail to spot that the smartly dressed young man named “Will” is actually his red-headed brother.
On the back, an inscription reads: “The fairytale romantic union of all the centuries. 29th April 2011.”
The mug, supposedly designed by a Chinese firm Guandong Enterprises, can be purchased for the princely sum of £9.99 plus postage and packaging.
However, the fact that the company is apparently registered in Britain may lead some to suspect it is all an elaborate spoof.
The website promoting the mug reads: “Crafted in the finest bone china, it features an exquisite design of the happy couple with ornate gold detailing to honour this great moment in history.
“Please be our guests to own this esteemed, limited edition heirloom to celebrate with your work associates, friends, family and loved ones on 29th April 2011.”
The company adds, perhaps somewhat hopefully: “You are welcome to purchase now to avoid disappointment and regret.”
To avoid confusion, the small print states that the drinking vessels "are not supplied to, or approved by, Prince William of Wales, Catherine Middleton or any member of the Royal Family."
A St James's Palace spokesman admitted he was aware of the unusual piece of memorabilia but declined to comment.
The mug is just one of a host of unofficial royal souvenirs to flood the market in recent weeks.
The lucrative industry has seen garden gnomes, ashtrays, comic books, beer, dolls and even "Will Wales's stag" t shirts appear for sale.
Copies of the clothes Miss Middleton wears are immediate sell-outs as are cheap imitations of her engagement ring.
Business is also brisk for look-a-likes of the royal couple as the countdown to the big day continues.
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