WITHAM MP Priti Patel was amongst the dignitaries who met the King and Queen Consort during their special visit to Essex this week.

The monarch, who assumed the throne following the death of Her Majesty the Queen last September, visited Colchester on Tuesday.

Joined by Queen Consort and wife Camilla, His Majesty made the trip in celebration of Colchester being awarded city status.

The first stop during the visit was the historic Colchester Castle, where the pair were greeted by a Guard of Honour and the city’s British Army Band.

Arriving to music and cheers, both spent some time greeting residents who have waited to see them.

Both the King and Queen Consort have already greeted some of the refugees and schoolchildren once entering the Castle Park grounds.

Dignitaries were gathered inside Colchester Castle, including Colchester Council leader David King, Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell, mayor Tim Young and Colchester MP Will Quince among those in attendance.

Amongst them was also Witham MP Priti Patel who greeted the royals during their entrance.

Once inside, the pair enjoyed speaking to representatives from Essex Native Oyster Restoration Initiative, Firstsite, and domestic abuse charity Next Chapter.