Royal fans get a SOAKING as torrential downpour hits hardy souls camping out on Mall ahead of King’s big day
ROYAL fans camping out on the Mall ahead of the King’s coronation have been soaked by torrential rain.
Crowds had been camping out this morning despite the wet conditions to try and catch a glimpse of King Charles and Camilla.
The couple had arrived at Westminster Abbey for the final rehearsal ahead of their big day tomorrow.
Royal enthusiasts held their phones in the air capturing the moment as the cars drove past, while others frantically waved at the King.
As they day went on the crowds were drenched in a downpour, with snaps showing them trying to find shelter as the rain poured.
Some had been camping since the early morning in a bid to find the best spot to witness the historic coronation.
Patriotic campers swathed in Union Jack Flags and stocked up with food, booze and bunting, many of whom also camped out for the Queen’s funeral in September, are settled in for Saturday.
Others have spent more than £4,000 to be in London to witness the coronation procession tomorrow.
Police officers were also seen sheltering for cover as wet conditions lashed down.
Charles and Camilla were snapped smiling and waving at fans from their cars as they made their way past the crowds.
Police on motorcycles drove ahead of the royals, as they moved past the masses.
One woman camping out to catch a glimpse of Saturday’s coronation procession said she plans to “grin and bear it” through the intermittent torrential downpours.
A soaked but smiling Trisha Hollis, 71, from Hull, who has pitched a tent on The Mall, said: “It’s history and I think at my age it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“I think I was two when the Queen was crowned but obviously I have no recollection of that. I admire the royal family, I’m glad we have them. I think the Queen did a sterling job.”
On Friday’s rainy showers, she added: “What will be will be. It’s 24 hours in my life. I will get dry and warm again sometime so I’ll grin and bear it.
“If you come back to me at 2am I might not be saying it with such a smile.
“Maybe we’ll have a nice day tomorrow but it did rain for the Queen in ’53.”
People have camped out for events such as the wedding of Prince Charles and Diana, and the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
The Queen’s funeral had a no-tents rule on The Mall, but royal fans ignored orders and camped anyway.
It comes as drivers have been warned of Bank Holiday traffic chaos.
Thousands of motorists have already taken to the roads for King Charles’ coronation with traffic building throughout the morning.
From this afternoon the capital will come to a standstill as roads are closed for the King’s processions.