Soldiers brave the heat as they rehearse for crucial role in Japanese state visit

The iconic Changing of The Guard at Buckingham Palace was cancelled today – in its place was some impressive daylight rehearsal.

This was ahead of the ceremonial welcome that will be performed for the state visit of the Emperor and Empress of Japan.

Braving the London heat, hundreds of spectators were able to get a close-up of the Mounted Troops from the Household Cavalry, the Foot Guards, the Bands of the Household Division and The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery as they rehearsed their manoeuvres around St James's Park.

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The Prince of Wales is set to greet the Emperor and Empress of Japan at Horse Guards Parade, before a state carriage journey to Buckingham Palace for a ceremonial welcome by the King and Queen.

A visit to Westminster Abbey and an evening state banquet at Buckingham Palace is expected to follow.

Originally the Changing of The Guard ceremony took place at the Palace of Whitehall, the Sovereign's official residence in London until 1689.

When the court moved to St James's Palace, the ceremony took place there.

In April, British and French soldiers made history by parading together for historic Changing of The Guard ceremonies on both sides of the Channel to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale.