LONDON - David and Victoria Beckham praised Prince William’s royal wedding to Kate Middleton on Friday as “beautiful and heartfelt”.

The Beckhams flew into London from the United States for the ceremony at Westminster Abbey and admitted it was a great privilege to be part of such an historic day.

In a statement following the ceremony, the couple said: “Today’s ceremony was beautiful and heartfelt. Catherine looked wonderfully elegant and we were honoured to be part of such a special, historical day for our country.

“We wish Catherine and William much love and happiness for the future.”

Former Manchester United and England footballer Beckham became friendly with William after working with the English FA president during the failed bid to win the right to host the 2018 World Cup.

Beckham’s current club LA Galaxy gave him permission to attend the wedding even though the MLS season is ongoing and, together with singer-turned-fashion designer Victoria, he was one of the highest-profile celebrities invited.

While all attention was on Kate’s dress, Victoria chose one of her own designs from her latest AW11 collection, which she unveiled at New York Fashion Week in February.

The former Spice Girl, pregnant with the Beckhams’ fourth child, coupled the navy draped “trapeze” dress with a hat by celebrated milliner Philip Treacy, perched above her forehead with her hair pulled tightly back into a neat ponytail.

And she collaborated with Christian Louboutin to customise a pair of the French designer’s shoes.

David, whose hair was slick and sculpted, wore a Ralph Lauren tailed morning suit with his OBE pinned to the right lapel of his jacket.

Like other guests the Beckhams will be contributing to the couple’s wedding charity rather than offering a gift.