Pubs and shops across south-west Hertfordshire are expected to enjoy a bumper Bank Holiday tomorrow(Friday) as thousands of workers enjoy a day off to celebrate the Royal wedding.

Britain was this week in the grip of a patriotic fever as hundreds of people slept on the streets of London to ensure they caught a glimpse of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The couple will exchange their vows at Westminster Abbey before taking a procession route through the capital to Buckingham Palace.

Dozens of streets will be closed in Watford and the surrounding area as residents mark the occasion with a street party.

Pubs across the town will also take advantage of the special Bank Holiday with a number of events.

At Druids, in Estcourt Road, visitors can enjoy an 80s-themed disco surrounded by Union Jack bunting.

Residents of Watford Heath will also be hosting a party, complete with food and drink stalls and an outdoor screen that will show the wedding ceremony live.

Katie Mullins, manager of The Royal Oak pub, said: “It should be really good. It’s nice because it’s bringing everyone from the village together.”

Riley’s, in The Parade, will host a “Royal Wedding knees-up” by allowing members to use its pool tables free of charge until 6pm.

Meanwhile, The Dirty Dogz band will entertain visitors to the Hammer in Hand pub, in Ganders Ash.

The event, from 2pm to 8pm, will also feature entertainment, children’s activities and a raffle, with all proceeds going to the Peace Hospice.

Although the Harlequin Centre will be open as usual, John Lewis is allowing its staff to enjoy watching the wedding by only opening from 1pm to 6pm.

And Roger Gagan, chief executive of Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce, said it could be a very profitable day for businesses.

“Providing the weather is good, then pubs will do well,” Mr Gagan said.

“The weather’s very important. If it’s nice, people will be out enjoying pubs, barbecues and street parties.

“It will be a very happy day and everyone wishes the couple well. People will be very relaxed and if they have the whole day off, they could go shopping later in the day, which will be good for businesses.”