Delighted crowds cheered the Queen when she visited Harwich and Colchester today.

Enthusiastic welcome - thousands lined Colchester High Street today to see the Queen

Thousands lined the streets to welcome Her Majesty and Prince Philip in one of the most eagerly anticipated occasions the port town has seen.

Arriving by train at Harwich Town Station first thing this morning, their Royal Highnesses were greeted by well-wishers who had been waiting several hours to catch a glimpse of the couple.

Dressed in red and wearing a black feather in her hat and gold brooch, the Queen accepted flowers from members of the public before heading to a reception at the historic Guildhall.

Harwich mayor Andy Morrison was due to escort the royals inside the Guildhall to meet civic leaders and see the building's jail with its 18th century graffiti.

Afterwards the Queen met those who had gathered along the quayside before taking a tour of the Mayflower Exhibition and Visitor Centre at the Ha'penny Pier.

Welcome ma'am - Her Majesty arrives at Harwich Station today. 39630-1

The it was off to Colchester, with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh arriving in Colchester's High Street at about 12.30pm for a royal walkabout to the town hall.

Town mayor John Bouckley and his wife, mayoress Shelagh, hosted a civic lunch in the Moot Hall with 100 guests.

After the lunch at Colchester the royal couple headed off to Essex University, helping to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Don't miss today's Evening Gazette for more reports and the first pictures, or our 16-page souvenir supplement in tomorrow's paper!

Published Thursday, November 25, 2004

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