Protesters from a number of activist groups have flocked to Westminster today to protest the King's appearance at the State Opening of Parliament.

Demonstrators from anti-monarchist group Republic, and anti-Israel, anti-climate change bloc Youth Action had planned to protest outside the Palace of Westminster - pushing police to make a number of arrests.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that ten members of Youth Demand had been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance.

The Met released images of officers encircling the group outside, and released a statement which read: "Last week, Youth Demand said they planned to disrupt the event.

Members of activist group Republic were also spotted in WestminsterRepublic

"An hour ago, officers arrested 10 of them in Westminster on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance.

"A further 20 to 25 have now gathered in Victoria Embankment Gardens, and further arrests are being made."

Just last week, the group had called for supporters to gather at Victoria Embankment Gardens today to protest Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's handling of the conflict in Gaza - days after they'd condemned the same thing at the Cenotaph on Monday.

In a social media statement at the time, Youth Demand had said: "Keir Starmer has called for a ceasefire. But we need actions, not words. That's why Youth Demand will disrupt the State Opening of Parliament.

The Met could be seen encircling a mob of protesters at Victoria Embankment Gardens

"We disrupt because it is our duty to fight back in every way we non-violently can, and because we refuse to despair, but instead are full of hope that another way is possible."

And in a damning email seen just days prior by GB News, the group said: "Next Wednesday, July 17, is the State Opening of Parliament. In an outdated, farcical parade the king will ride in his (literal) golden carriage to usher in the new Labour government.

"Not in our name will Starmer be welcomed as the new head of a blood-stained Parliament in pomp and glory.

"So, Youth Demand will be disrupting the State Opening of Parliament. We disrupt because it is our duty to fight back in every way we non-violently can, and because we refuse to despair, but instead are full of hope that another way is possible.

The King and Queen, pictured leaving Buckingham Palace after the arrests were made

Meanwhile, there is no indication that any members of Republic have been arrested - but the group has turned out at the event in the past.

Last year, for Charles III's first ever State Opening of Parliament as King, the group could be seen booing and chanting "not my King" as the royal procession filtered down Whitehall.