Demonstrators who plan to hold a march against the monarchy during the Queen's visit to Southend have been condemned by leading figures in the town.

Flyers have been posted around the town featuring a picture of the Queen and Prince Philip and posing the question: "The great Royal debate - should they be hanged or shot?"

The flyers call for people to gather on the day of the Royal visit on Friday to demonstrate against the monarchy.

Sir Teddy Taylor , Rochford and Southend East MP, said the march was the work of a minority of activists.

He said: "I am appalled at these flyers which I think are just the activities of a mad minority.

"I think the average Southender will want to pull them down as quickly as possible.

He added: "I have only lived here 19 years, but when these things happen it usually turns out that people from outside Southend have organised them."

Peggy Dowie, chairman of the Pier Museum Foundation, said she was speechless that anyone would even think of disrupting the visit.

She said: "These people must be maniacs - it is absolutely dreadful.

"We are very privileged to have the Queen come and visit Southend, she has gone out of her way to accommodate the people here and visit the seafront.

"I just hope nobody will respond to such lunacy - it will spoil what will be a lovely day and so good for Southend.

"Let's hope no-one turns up - in the old days they would have been hounded, and gone to the tower."

Inspector Will Kennedy, of Southend police, said officers were aware of the advertised march.

He said: "There is always the opportunity for demonstrations whenever the Queen makes a public appearance.

"We are aware of this and would deal with any such demonstration appropriately."

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