THERE'S something special about a royal visit.

So you can imagine the air of excitement and expectation when the Queen visited Colchester in May 1985.

The crowds turned out in force to see her Royal Highness, who visited the University of Essex and saw a library book exhibition and telecommunications building before going to lunch at Colchester Town Hall where she was served by catering students from Colchester Institute.

She appeared on the balcony to the delight of the crowds and collected posies as she walked along Colchester High Street.

Crowds of people six deep cheered as she drove away in a glass-topped Rolls Royce.

The Queen then officially opened Colchester General Hospital in Turner Road.

Have you ever met a member of the royal family during a visit to north Essex?

If so, drop us a line and send us your pictures using the links below.