Flotilla on Thames to celebrate the Tudor king

A TUDOR pageant is to take place on the Thames to mark the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's coronation.

Actors playing the king and members of his court will be aboard a magnificent flotilla sailing from the Tower of London to Hampton Court Palace. The pageant will be the highlight of a month-long series of cultural activities celebrating the history of London, which was launched today by Mayor Boris Johnson.

The events, called the Story of London, include shows, guided walking tours, music workshops and history lectures. Speaking today at Hampton Court Palace, Mr Johnson said: "London. Londinium amo. (I love London). A little place by the river that is home to millions and is a colossus on the world stage. There are so many stories to tell, in so many different ways, and the Story of London will be a kaleidoscopic exposition of the city's past, present and future. It will bring together some superb attractions."

Filmmakers, writers and historians will be involved in the events, depicting the history of London through different mediums. The Museum of London will host the first guided tour behind the scenes, including a look at the most unusual back door in London which opens onto the Roman London wall.

Munira Mirza, the Mayor's director of cultural policy, said: "We want to help support new types of event that showcase the brilliance of London."

The pageant will be part of the Living History weekend on 20-21 June.