Prince Harry and his bride-to-be Meghan Markle have marked their engagement by releasing a series of romantic photographs.

Ipswich Star: Can you answer all our questions correctly? Picture: ALEXI LUBOMIRSKI/ PA WIRECan you answer all our questions correctly? Picture: ALEXI LUBOMIRSKI/ PA WIRE (Image: Archant)

An intimate black and white portrait of the couple embracing has been published alongside an endearing but more formal picture of the pair sitting together holding hands.

Meanwhile a third picture, a more candid image showing them walking arm in arm, was released in recognition of the messages of support the prince and Ms Markle have received.

In an Instagram message posted alongside the final photograph, Kensington Palace said: “Thank you so much for all of the wonderful comments following the release of Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle’s engagement photographs.

“The couple are so grateful for the warm and generous messages they have received during such a happy time in their lives.

Ipswich Star: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have released a series of romantic pictures to mark their engagement. Picture: ALEXI LUBOMIRSKI/ PA WIREPrince Harry and Meghan Markle have released a series of romantic pictures to mark their engagement. Picture: ALEXI LUBOMIRSKI/ PA WIRE (Image: Archant)

“As a way to say thank you, they have decided to share this candid photograph from the day of their portrait sittings directly with all of you.”

The prince and the former American actress have followed a long royal tradition of issuing pictures to mark engagements.

The photographs were taken by fashion and celebrity photographer Alexi Lubomirski earlier this week at Frogmore House, Windsor.

Mr Lubomirski said: “It was an incredible honour to be asked to document this wonderful event, but also a great privilege to be invited to share and be a witness to this young couple’s love for one another.

“I cannot help but smile when I look at the photos that we took of them, such was their happiness together.”

Other couples who published images ahead of their weddings have included the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh when they were Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

• Read more: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding date revealed