THE Prince of Wales will pay a visit to Colchester to mark 40 years since his appointment as Colonel-in-Chief of The Parachute Regiment.

His Royal Highness Prince Charles will stop off at Merville Barracks on Friday, June 23, to meet the troops, watch equipment demonstrations and attend a parade.

The heir to the throne is set to mark the milestone with representatives from all four battalions.

He will say a few words and present medals, before witnessing a parachute display by the Regiment's Red Devils Freefall Display Team.

The Prince of Wales will then visit each battalion in turn to experience the varying aspects of regimental life, from parachuting to vehicles and equipment.

The Prince will also be invited to take a short drive in a JACKAL armoured vehicle.