A sea of amusement arcades, fish and chip shops and thousands of well-wishers will greet the Queen on her historic visit to the borough next Friday.

Her Majesty will get a taste of Southend life when she takes a stroll along the Golden Mile on March 12.

Accompanied by Prince Philip, she will stop opposite the Hope Hotel before meeting the assembled crowds.

Council leaders have even given headteachers the option of sending groups of school children to the seafront to wave their flags.

The royal couple are expected to travel to the seafront along Marine Parade from the Kursaal towards the pier on the last leg of their visit.

Southend council leader, Graham Longley said: "We are delighted the Royal party is expected to make some time to meet the people.

"We hope as many people as possible will come down to our seafront to give Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh an enthusiastic welcome."

The Queen and Prince Philip will share three engagements between them during their whistle-stop tour of the town.

After arriving at Southend Airport, the Queen will travel to the newly refurbished Customs and Excise building in Victoria Avenue where around 500,000 VAT returns are processed each month.

She will be given a glimpse behind the scenes at the offices before unveiling a plaque to commemorate her visit.

Meanwhile, the duke will visit KeyMed medical instruments company in Stock Road. They will then meet at South East Essex College for a quick tour.

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