The ranks of those continuing the Pearly tradition have been boosted today by the biggest coronation of 'Pearlies' in 100 years in the East End.

The coronation of nine new members of the Pearly family was overseen by a vicar in Bethnal Green.

As per tradition, the ceremony was followed by a "right olde cockney knees up".

Piers Hopkirk went to meet them:

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Henry Croft, the original Pearly King, who embellished his trousers with pearl buttons to draw attention to his charity fund raising activities.

Hundreds of friends, family members and followers, many wearing the iconic button-covered suits, converged on the Carpenter's Arms in east London to celebrate with the new royalty.