The Bears are on their way to Buckingham Palace today to celebrate their LV County Championship triumph at an official reception hosted by the Lords Taverners and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

A party of 50 players and coaches, wives, partners, Committee and senior management departed Edgbaston this morning for London, for what will be the Bears first County Championship reception at the Palace since they last won the title in 2004.

Bears all-rounder Chris Woakes, said: “The LV County Championship is the pinnacle of domestic cricket so to get this reward of meeting HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and visit Buckingham Palace is something that we’re all looking forward to.”

Ahead of today’s visit, Bears batsman Laurie Evans has been getting a few hints and tips on Palace etiquette from his uncle Greg Searle MBE, who won a rowing Bronze medal at the London 2012 Olympics.

“I’ve certainly be doing my preparation in advance, said Laurie. “My uncle Greg was actually at the Palace yesterday as part of an Olympians reception, so it’s been very handy to have that advice of what to do and what not to do, as it’s certainly not an opportunity that comes up every day.”

Upon arrival on London, the Bears will attend a lunch reception at the Lords Taverners before making the short walk across to Buckingham Palace.