WORCESTER is gearing up for a visit from the Queen as part of her regional tour for the Diamond Jubilee.

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will vist the Faithfull City on Wednesday, July 11 and highlights will include officially opening The Hive, the county's new library and history centre.

Worcester is known as the "Faithful City" because of its long standing loyalty to the Royal family, dating to the Battle of Worcester in 1651, the final conflict of the English Civil War.

After the opening of the Hive, the royal party will then move on to Worcester Guildhall, where they will enjoy a reception and lunch with community representatives from across Worcestershire.

This will be followed by a chance for the royal couple to meet residents on the High Street, where VisitWorcester will be organising two themed displays celebrating Worcester's heritage.

Finally, The Queen and the Duke will visit Worcester Cathedral to join the local community to listen to a celebration of the Diamond Jubilee in words and music.

Adrian Hardman, leader of Worcestershire County Council, said: “The visit to Worcestershire by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh to open The Hive is an honour and privilege.

“It will focus a well deserved spotlight on the county and we are tremendously proud to be showcasing the county's newest public building to the Royal couple."