At least 10,000 people wearing yellow shirts gathered at Sanam Sua Pa near Chitralada Palace to celebrate His Majesty the King's 79th birthday this morning.

The army and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration organised the event to celebrate the auspicious day, drawing thousands of people since 6 a.m. today to queue up to sign well-wishing books.

The official ceremony began this morning, with Army and coup council commander Sonthi Boonyaratkalin vowed with his life to maintain sovereignty and to work hard to follow HM the King's intention to bring happiness to the Thais.

Gen Sonthi led a parade of people to the gate of the Royal Chitralada Palace to join the blessing ceremony for His Majesty the King.

Later, the Deputy Secretary General of Chitralada Palace Mr. Narongrit Sanitwong Na Ayutthaya, received garlands from Gen Sonthi and Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin before they jointly sang the "Poom paen din Na-wa-min Ma-ha-rath" together with the public.

Meanwhile, Bangkok and the army organised activities for the general public on this auspicious occasion. Elderly people are receiving health check-up services today, and the public can donate blood. Books are provided for well-wishers to write their blessings for His Majesty the King.