Residents and day-trippers eager to catch a “once-in-a-lifetime” glimpse of the iconic royal couple descended on the centre of Colchester on Tuesday.

Braving the teeth-chattering temperatures, crowds of children, parents and people of all ages patiently waited for hours to witness their arrival at Colchester Castle.

William, 22, who is a student at University of Essex, secured himself and his large Union Jack flag a prime spot directly opposite the war memorial.

He said: “For a long time in my life I have been a fan of the royals and I thought this was the perfect opportunity to come out and give them my support.

“I have never seen the King before and so it really is exciting.

“I love the stability the royal family gives the country and the culture it brings. You don’t get this anywhere else in the world. It’s such a uniting factor.”

Kim Wesbroon, 39, attended the historic visit with her friends and their young children.

She said: “This is part of history and it is a once in a lifetime experience. I also think it is really good for the kids to come and see the new monarch.

“The royal family is part of our country and I think it is 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 but he will do his best for us.”

Annie Purtell, 30, who headed to the momentous occasion with her baby daughter made friends with fellow royal family fan Gina Hickman, 35, while waiting for the King.

“I think King Charles is really compassionate and will do really good for us,” said Annie.

“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.”

Although not Charles’ biggest fan, Dawn Lamb, 44, said she was never going to miss his visit to the newly-crowned city.

She added: “It’s such a historic occasion and I just think it’s really nice for my son to see. I mean, when will the King be here again? Probably not in our lifetimes.

“I’ll be honest, I don’t mind the King, he is the same age as my dad, but I’m more for Will and Kate.

“I’m a bit ‘meh’ about the royal family but I think it’s important to come out for these huge and historic occasions.

“My son will tell his children about this.”

King Charles' visit was also praised by dignitaries in the city.

Darius Laws, who is the leader of the Conservative group in Colchester and councillor for Rural North Ward, had long campaigned for Colchester to become a city.

Reflecting on his meeting with King Charles he said: “It was a monumental day and an absolutely historic moment for this amazing place we call our home.

“I even got the chance to shake the King’s hand which I never thought would happen in my lifetime – it was really quite extraordinary.

“I told them city status for Colchester was like bestowing a knighthood upon a town.

"They were lovely and clearly enjoyed getting to know Colchester and the people.”

Colchester MP Will Quince said: “I’ve been in the same room as the King before but I have never actually met him so it was amazing to actually meet him.

“He was warm and charming and full of smiles and energy and his presence today truly confirmed Colchester becoming a city.

“It was a great day for the city and there were so many smiles, especially on the faces of young school children who came to meet him. It was a brilliant day for Colchester.”

Colchester High Steward, Sir Bob Russell, was also full of praise when speaking about the royal visit.

He added: “This will go down as one of the greatest days in Colchester’s evolving history. The first time a Mayor of Colchester has welcomed a King.”