King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla joined by Edward and Sophie at Buckingham Palace garden party

The King and Queen Consort hosted the first Buckingham Palace garden party of the year, just three days ahead of the coronation. The couple were joined by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. More than 8,000 guests gathered on the lawns of the monarch's official London residence, including many of the 500 Coronation Champions, recognised for their volunteering by the Royal Voluntary Service of which Camilla is patron. Charles donned a morning suit and top hat, while his wife, Camilla looked lovely in a navy and white ensemble. Sister-in-law Sophie opted for a pink fit and flare dress. Yeomen of the Guard, dressed in their red and gold ceremonial costumes, form part of the proceedings, and guests are free to stroll around the vast expanse of the gardens while a military band plays background music. Garden parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s when Queen Victoria began what were known as "breakfasts", although they took place in the afternoon. Guests also queue in tea tents and take their seats on nearby chairs, and around 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 slices of