Eye-catching artwork from some of Britain’s best known artists, and some of the borough’s budding da Vinci’s of the future, is being installed today ahead of the Queen’s visit.

Her Majesty’s visit tomorrow will launch the four-day London Pride art and design festival at Valentines Park, Ilford.

The exhibition includes art and design pieces from London’s top galleries, museums and universities.

Exhibits include Damien Hirst’s iconic mini, paintings by Lucien Freud, Francis Bacon and David Hockney and stunning sculptures called The Queen’s Beasts.

Five borough schools will also have their artwork on display, including an eye-catching collage of postage stamps from the Queen’s six decades on the throne, which has been put together by students at Ilford County High School, Fremantle Road, Barkingside.

It is divided into six segments, and uses stamps of different shades to form into the Queen’s head, with the collage bang up to date with a 60p price tag on it.

The Queen will arrive at Valentines Park at 10.25am, with her and the Duke of Edinburgh expected to greet crowds before making their way to the mansion.

The park’s gates will open at 7.30am, with people advised to walk or use public transport.

Two big screens will beam pictures of her visit to the crowds.

On Saturday and Sunday there will be a marquee filled with children’s activities, including The Big Book bubble featuring some of their best loved stories.

Craft fans can enjoy the designer/makers craft fair taking place during the weekend and there will be a funfair in Melbourne Field.