US President not invited to Prince William's wedding

Britain's Prince William has reportedly not invited US President Barack Obama and wife Michelle to his wedding.

Buckingham Palace sent save-the-date fax messages to a number of VIPs earlier this week but the Obamas have reportedly not received one as the security costs of hosting the American leader would be too high.

Royal expert Roy Sheppard told RadarOnline: "I would assume that the cost of the Obama security would be unbelievably high and the bill would be sent to the royal family."

As William, who is marrying fiancee Kate Middleton, is second in line behind his father, Prince Charles, the wedding is not a state occasion.

Roy added: "It's a private event even though hundreds of millions of people will watch it, and the royals - and British taxpayers - would have to pay for the protection of the president while at the wedding."

In keeping with British tradition, Kate's parents will pay part of the costs including some of the flowers, bride's dress, catering and reception, and honeymoon.