The city centre is building with anticipation ahead of the visit, with families coming up to enjoy the special occasion.

Security is rife in the area with gates already in place for the event.

Security building up ahead of the event (Image: Steve Brading)

Families and crowds have begun waiting to get a glimpse of the Royals arriving.

Some have said they have eben waiting hours to secure their spot.

Gina Hickman (left), 35, and Annie Purtell, 30, with Esmae and Esme (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “It’s a moment in history. My daughter’s school has been really good and let the students off school if they were going to see the King.

“I do like the royal family and think King Charles is great. I’m hoping to shake his hand.”

Annie Purtell, 30, is here with baby daughter Esme Spooner.

She said: “I think King Charles is really compassionate and will do really good for us.

“I love the royals and I love watching the shows such as Victoria and The Crown.

“I also really like the historic royals too and I just think their lifestyle is so fascinating.”

Kim Wesbroon, 39, was one of many who has arrived early (Image: Newsquest)

Also waiting with excitement was Kim Wesbroon, 39.

She said: “We have only been here about half an hour so not too bad. I was expecting it to be very very busy.

“It is part of history and it is a once in a lifetime experience.

"I also think it is really good for the kids too to come and see the new monarch." 

“The royal family is part of our country and I think it’s important the kids show respect. 

“Replacing the Queen will be hard for the King because she reigned for so long. It is a big ask, he will do his best for us.”

Katherine Ruffel and daughter Kailey (Image: Steve Brading)

During the visit, His Majesty will visit Colchester Castle, before unveiling the name of Colchester Zoo’s latest addition, a baby rhino.

The pair will later head to Colchester Library to enjoy afternoon tea with Age UK volunteers and users.

William Scaife, 9, waits at Colchester Castle (Image: Steve Brading)

Her Majesty will be joined in the library’s Literacy Corner by children, broadcaster and author Dermot O’Leary, and author Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

Follow along with our live blog HERE for all coverage of the day.

VIEW MORE PICTURES BELOW

Crowds and police pictured outside Colchester Castle (Image: Steve Brading)

Dawn Lamb, 44, far left, with friends and family (Image: Newsquest)

University of Essex student William, 22, excited for the event (Image: Newsquest)