Security has been ramped up in Edinburgh today ahead of the King’s Scottish Coronation amid sabotage fears by anti-monarchists.
A huge operation was launched after police received intelligence that at least two groups will use the occasion to stage a protest.
High metal fencing will line parts of the route as the King and Queen are presented with the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish crown jewels, at a National Ceremony of Thanksgiving at 2.15 pm.
Officers have deployed anti-terror measures, including sweeping bins and banning drones in the area around the event.
UK anti-monarchist group Republic has already announced plans to demonstrate along Lawnmarket, yards from where the ceremony will take place.
Security has been ramped up in Edinburgh today ahead of the King’s Scottish Coronation amid sabotage fears by anti-monarchists (Pictured: King Charles wearing the Imperial State Crown with the Orb and Sceptre in hand leaves Westminster Abbey)
Scottish campaigners from Our Republic will stage a simultaneous protest at Holyrood.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, police lead for the event, said officers will take a ‘proactive engagement approach’ with protesters but that ‘safety is our priority’.
He said: ‘Campaigning and demonstration is a legitimate, necessary and vital part of life.
‘Abusive, threatening behaviour or activity intended to disrupt the event that risks public safety is not legitimate protest.
‘Officers on the ground have to make assessments to quickly consider whether someone’s behaviour breaches the threshold of criminality.
‘There are a range of factors and circumstances that affect this decision making, as well as any triggers that may lead to wider disruption.
‘Every situation is unique. Safety is our priority, balanced against people’s rights.’
Fifteen roads have been shut down across the city to make way for the thousands of spectators expected to line the streets.
All traffic will be restricted, including buses and bikes. Council chiefs also warned of possible travel chaos and urged people to plan ahead for journeys.
Lord Lieutenant Robert Aldridge said: ‘The eyes of the world will be upon us once again as we mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. I’m quite sure it will be another proud day for the capital.
‘We have to be prepared for disruption across the city, particularly in the Old Town. We’re working to manage this as best we can and to keep residents, businesses and visitors updated.
‘For those who wish to enjoy the Royal and People’s Processions, I urge you to plan ahead.’
The event will begin at 1.15pm with a People’s Procession along the Royal Mile comprised of 100 individuals from different groups representing various aspects of Scottish life.
At 1.40pm, the Honours of Scotland will leave Holyroodhouse under a military escort. More than 700 members of the Armed Forces will lead the ceremonial elements of the day.
Anti-monarchy protesters start to gather near the St Giles’ Cathedral ahead of the National Service of Dedication and Thanksgiving in Edinburgh on July 5, 2023
At 1.40pm, the Honours of Scotland will leave Holyroodhouse under a military escort. More than 700 members of the Armed Forces will lead the ceremonial elements of the day (Pictured: King Charles III walks through the guard of honour on Monday)
The Stone of Destiny is also expected to feature prominently at the service at St Giles’.
Following the ceremony, a tri-service Guard of Honour will receive Their Majesties and The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, before 12 Regiment Royal Artillery deliver a 21-gun salute at Edinburgh Castle. The events will formally conclude with a fly past from the Red Arrows.
Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack said: ‘I know that thousands of Scots will line the streets of Edinburgh to pay tribute to the King and welcome the Royal Family, once again, to Scotland.
‘It will be a huge honour to attend the service in my role as Secretary of State for Scotland.’
He added: ‘Scotland’s Armed Forces will play a key role in the service to present The King and Queen with the Honours of Scotland. It is right and fitting that they do.
‘Having been such a crucial part of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, they will now be central to this important moment for King Charles. I very much look forward to seeing our military personnel at their very best.’
The king, 74, dons a morning suit with grey waistcoat and top hat, letting the outfit pop with a purple pocket square, during a garden party at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh this week
Heavy rain lashed down in the Holyroodhouse gardens on Tuesday as 6,000 guests gathered to meet the King and Queen as well as the Princess Royal
Service personnel last took part in the presentation of the Honours of Scotland in 1953, when they were presented to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The presentation of the Honours of Scotland marks the dedication of the King and Queen in Scotland and has origins dating back to the 1800s, when they were presented to King George IV.
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: ‘Today is a historic day for Scotland and a proud day for the hundreds of service personnel involved who will be at the forefront of the occasion, showcasing their world-class drill and ceremonial duties once again.
‘The Armed Forces have a strong and deep-rooted connection to Scotland, so it is only fitting that they lead the formal proceedings of the day in such a spectacular way.’
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