The Oxford Mail would like to congratulate Prince William and Kate Middleton on their imminent nuptials, and humbly make a polite request.

When choosing their big day, we hope they will liaise with the good folk of Abingdon Town Council so the old County Hall will not be covered in scaffolding for the traditional throwing of the buns.

This ritual dates back to 1761 and it would be such a shame if the happy occasion was not marked in the town’s own unique way.