Prince Charles has spoken of his "immense pride" of being Colonel in Chief of the Parachute Regiment.

The prince is visiting Colchester today to mark the 40th anniversary of his role and he has described his "immense pride and privilege" to lead the regiment.

The Prince of Wales is at Merville Barracks on Colchester Garrison today as he marks the auspicious milestone of four decades as the head of the world-famous regiment.

All four battalions of 16 Air Assault Brigade, which is based in Colchester, will be represented in a parade at the barracks today.

The Prince, dressed in a military uniform, has begun his inspection of the battalions.

Gazette:

He stopped to speak to soliders as he walks along the lines of immaculately turned out military personnel.

The Band of the Parachute Regiment is resplendent with its polished instruments and is providing the musical accompaniment for the day.

Prince Charles has presented commendations to six soldiers including Steve Smith, a member of the 3 Para, who has served in the army for 23 years and who has been eployed on five tours of Northern Ireland, Kosovo and Afghanistan.

Prince Charles gave a speech to the soldiers and presented medals, before watching a parachute display by the Red Devils Freefall display team.

He also visited each battalion in turn and they presented varying aspects of regimental life, from parachuting to vehicles and equipment.

During these visits, the prince was invited to take a short drive in a JACKAL armoured vehicle.

Gazette:

The Parachute Regiment is an airborne infantry regiment of the British Army.

Trained to perform at short notice, paratroopers can deploy by parachute, helicopter and airlanding to undertake an array of preventative and combat missions, as well as supporting the Special Forces.