Today’s engagements in Canberra featured a royal fan’s alpaca which sneezed on the King during his meet and greet with well-wishers at the War Memorial.

Charles was introduced to nine-year-old Hephner, an alpaca sporting a crown and suit as he met the crowd who had gathered to see him.

As the monarch stroked the animal’s nose, it sneezed and sparked laughter among those around.

Hephner’s owner, Robert Fletcher, said: “My wife found the crown and thought it was fitting. I think he loves his crown very much.

“He has lots of outfits but it’s a special day so he is in a suit and bow tie as well.

“Hephner has met a few famous people before but this is the King. He wants to meet the King.

“He doesn’t bite and he doesn’t spit. He’s always on his best behaviour anyway.

“And he is a pro-monarchy alpaca.”