Troops put on display of pomp and precision in first public Trooping the Colour rehearsal

The first public rehearsal of Trooping the Colour, the Brigade Major's Review, has taken place ahead of the formal state ceremonial parade to mark the King's official birthday in June.

This is the first of three practice performances of Trooping the Colour - known as the khaki rehearsal because the parade is in No.2 uniforms, rather than ceremonial dress.

Until now, rehearsals have been in private but the Brigade Major's Review at Horse Guards Parade was observed by a small crowd, in preparation for the 8,000 people who will be there to witness the real thing. 

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The Household Division's Brigade Major, Lieutenant Colonel James Shaw, inspected the troops and is responsible for putting the whole performance together.

This practice will be followed by the Major General's Review on Saturday and the Colonel's Review next week before Trooping the Colour is held on 15 June.

King Charles is to take part in the Trooping the Colour ceremony, but will inspect the soldiers from a carriage rather than on horseback, it is understood.