Hemsby's James Bensly's day with King and Playschool star

James Bensly, who represents the Hemsby area on Great Yarmouth Borough Council, was able to sample the pre-coronation fever beginning to sweep across London as he made his way to and from the palace.

And as well as seeing King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort, Mr Bensly was able to meet one of his childhood favourites at the party - Baroness Floella Benjamin.

James Bensly with Baroness Floella Benjamin Picture: James Bensly (Image: James Bensly)

Mr Bensly said: "I was lucky enough to be chosen to be able to go to the garden party by Norfolk County Council.

"It is so wonderful to see so many nationalities and every colour and every creed down in London at the moment to celebrate this historic event.

"I am so lucky and honoured to go down there."

Mr Bensly said the highlight of his London visit was meeting Baroness Floella, who kept countless children occupied as a presenter on Playschool for 12 years, at the garden party, which was also attended by legendary singer Lionel Richie.

He said: "But no pun intended, the jewel in the crown was meeting that amazing lady and for her to turn around and say "through the circular window or through the square window" just reminded me of my childhood memories. She was absolute class.

"It was an honour to represent Great Yarmouth, Hemsby and Norfolk."

He travelled down to the capital with his wife Louise.

James and Louise Bensly had a very important date with royalty Picture: James Bensly (Image: James Bensly)

He said: "The coronation is a once-in-a-lifetime event. King's coronations don't come around too often and it is something very, very special and is something our country should be proud of.

"The Royals have a deep tradition of being associated with Norfolk."