The new swing - made from six teak trees over 100 years old and felled in Phrae - will replace the old swing that has been scarred by weather for 224 years.

The red wooden landmark, known in Thai as Sao Ching Cha on Bamrungmuang Road is a national historic site.

Apirak revealed that the BMA was informed that His Majesty the King had accepted its request to preside over the celebration, which the city initially planned to hold in August at the "Lan Khon Muang" plaza in front of the City Hall.

The exact date will be determined later.

The city plans to organise the Giant Swing celebration over two days. The first day will include historical exhibitions and general celebrations, while the second day will be devoted to royal-presiding Brahmin and Buddhist rites plus the Fine Arts Department's Khon drama about the Bangkok Capital City building for the royal audience, Apirak said.

The BMA will also produce souvenirs for this auspicious occasion with two series of Phra Sao Ching Cha amulets (Phra Sri Sakayamuni and Phra Trimurti), for which the BMA will open for reservations until July 26, when the Maha Buddhapisek ceremony attended by 100 Buddhist monks will be held.

Other souvenirs include a Giant Swing history book, special edition stamps and Giant Swing miniatures, Apirak said.

The BMA will also hand out Nakhonthansutra holy water to those attending the celebrations.

Apirak said the profits made from the souvenirs would help establish the Sao Ching Cha Restoration Fund and hold activities with Phrae.