A group of 58 former work colleagues hailing from 13 different countries held a reunion exploring the sites in and around Colchester.

Richard and Susan Vokes organised the six day trip for their former colleagues, who they met whilst working for the Asian Development Bank in The Philippines.

Whilst over in the UK, the group, who hail from 13 mostly European countries, visited the historic sites of Britain's oldest recorded town as well as spending some time exploring the famous Constable Country.

Mr Vokes, 67, said: "It went extremely well. They really enjoyed exploring the history of Colchester.

"For most of them it was a part of the UK they did not know at all.

"With the exception of one person it was their first trip and that even includes all the British nationals."

The stops on the group's whistle-stop tour included Colchester Castle, Lavenham, Beth Chatto Gardens in Elmstead, Flatford Mill and Dedham.

Most of the group stayed in Colchester's historic Greyfriars Hotel, with many others in The George just down the road.

In particular, the visitors, who came from as far away as the Japan and New Zealand, were impressed with Colchester's Roman heritage

Mr Vokes said: "All the group were impressed with the Castle and the Castle Museum and what they saw of the Castle Park.

"They will have all seen part of the park on their walking tour of Colchester, but quite a few had the chance to take stroll in the wider park and thought it a very lovely and colourful open space."

Mr Vokes and his wife Susan, 66, who have spent most of their lives living in the town, are hoping potentially rave reviews of the trip could send a few more tourists to Colchester in the near future.

He said: "We send out a newsletter to all the former employees of the group and there will be a write up and review of the trip in there so hopefully other people will see it.

"If we can promote the town it will be good for the high street.

"My sense is that things are getting better and the council are getting better at promoting the area.

"But there is a lot here in Colchester and we should be making more of it."