YORK'S Royal week began in style as the Duke of Edinburgh arrived in the city to take the salute at a parade of Second World War veterans.

Old comrades from all over the country who fought at the Battle of Kohima gathered in York for their reunion weekend, the highlight of which was a service in Dean's Park.

The Duke sat on the front row during the service, wearing full military medals, before taking the salute at York Minster as more than 500 veterans and their guests marched by. Hundreds of people lined the streets outside the Minster to clap and cheer the veterans and to get a glimpse of the Duke.

At the conclusion of the march- past, the Duke waved to the crowds before getting into his car and being whisked away.

However, he will be back in York on Thursday with the Queen, to attend a series of engagements in the city.

They will attend a service at the Minster before taking a walkabout along Duncombe Place to the Assembly Rooms, where the couple will see a special exhibition about York's history. The Queen will be in the Museum Gardens during the afternoon to launch the city council's Summer Daze programme for young people.

PICTURE: The Duke of Edinburgh arrives at York Minster for the Kohima service and parade Picture: Nigel Holland