Thousands stage show of support for king of Thailand in Bangkok

Gathering at Grand Palace follows months of protests calling for reform of monarchy

Thousands of royalists have thronged to Bangkok's Grand Palace for a glimpse of the Thai king, in a massive show of support after months of protests calling for an overhaul of the government and reform of the monarchy.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn sits at the apex of Thai power, his influence permeating every aspect of society. But the once-unassailable institution has faced an unprecedented challenge from a growing pro-democracy movement, with calls for reforms including an end to draconian royal defamation laws.