Richmond town centre is to be dressed with royal flags and will welcome 'Beefeaters', while the streets are to feature a family-friendly augmented reality trail to mark the Coronation of King Charles.

The event comes as residents are set to host almost 200 street parties across the borough over the coronation bank holiday weekend, along with some larger celebrations in Barnes, St Margarets and Hampton.

The Richmond trail involves a newly created character of Sir Lawrence the Lion who will guide visitors on their journey through the town's historic streets, where they will meet members of the animal kingdom.

Along the way, visitors can interact with virtual images and information displayed in the physical environment, trying on the items that are given to Sir Lawrence by his friends to be worn at his own coronation.

Greeters, styled as Beefeaters, will welcome visitors (credit Royal Palaces)

As part of the event, visitors can download a free children's ebook of the story and meet the King in exciting augmented reality. This event promises to be a unique and exciting experience for families looking for fun and adventure.

The town centre coronation trail and experience will run from April 28 through to May 8.

And next Saturday - May 6 - when King Charles III is crowned, greeters styled as London Beefeater Guards positioned just outside the train station, offering the perfect selfie opportunity.

Separately, Ritz-style doormen will welcome visitors into the town and give a gracious entrance to the stores.

Families are invited to take part in the planned activities while exploring all that the town has to offer, from independent businesses to the beautiful setting on the River Thames.

The events are being organised by Be Richmond, which supports town centre businesses through attracting visitors to the area.

The organisation's Ellen Amorina Storrar said: "We are thrilled to host this exciting event in celebration of King Charles III's coronation.

"We invite families to come and take part in the planned activities while exploring all that the town has to offer. This event is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and charm of Richmond in a whole new way."

For more information about the Coronation celebration and future planned events, please visit the Be Richmond website on https://berichmond.london/