Royal Fanatic Becomes First to Camp Outside London's Westminster Abbey for Wedding

April 26: John Loughrey, a fan of Princess Diana, talks with a passer-by outside Westminster Abbey in London. (AP)

LONDON -- One of the British royal family's most dedicated fans become the first to take up position outside Westminster Abbey Monday -- four days ahead of Friday's wedding.

Armed with only a sleeping bag and two plastic grocery bags, John Loughrey, 56, headed to the famous London abbey to guarantee a prime position for the happy event.

The former assistant chef, from Wandsworth, southwest London, was dressed in a Kate Middleton and Prince William T-shirt carrying the message, "Diana Would Be Proud."

"I'll never see anything like this in my lifetime," he told Sky News. "I'm 56, I may never see William as King so this is the most extraordinary opportunity for me. It won't be easy and I may not eat properly but come Friday it will be worth it."

The self-confessed "royal superfan" gave up his job to attend every day of the official inquiry into the death of Princess Diana.

Click here to read more on the royal wedding from Sky News.