Peter Phillips quaffed champagne just 90 minutes before tying the knot

London, May 19 : Royal groom Peter Phillips downed bottles of champagne with his dad and friends at a pub- just 90 minutes before tying the knot.

A coach took the party consisting of nine people, all in their wedding suits, to the country pub, where they were welcomed by Sir Michael Parkinson, whose son Nick owns the Royal Oak in Paley Street, near Windsor, Berks.

"It shows something down to earth that Peter went out for a drink with his old man and his mates before getting wed," The Sun quoted drinker Mick Bowles.

Bottles of champagne were being quaffed as bridegroom's dad Capt Mark Phillips, gave him advices on marriage.

When one of 30-year-old Peter's two best men, Andrew Tucker nipped to the loo, one of the party took his speech and the wedding rings from his coat as it hung on a hook.

"A look of horror spread across his face when he realised what was gone. After ten minutes letting him sweat they handed everything back," a witness said.

The nine strong party was then taken to St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle where the Queen watched her grandson exchanging wedding vows with Autumn Kelly.

ANI