Anti-government protesters tore up flower beds in Bangkok, Thailand, today (October 14) as the country's monarch visits the country.

The plants had been laid around the Democracy Monument in the centre of the Thai capital in an attempt by government chiefs to keep away the crowds from the statue, which has become a focal point of unrest in recent months.

However, large crowds have gathered in the area where they clashed with police and supporters of the monarchy - identifiable by their yellow t-shirts - holding a counter-rally at the same place.

The two groups confronted each other, with objects being thrown by the anti-establishment demonstrators.

Bangkok police commander Phukphong Phongpetra appeared at the protest this morning to try and disperse the crowds. However, he was surrounded by demonstrators, with some of them throwing water at him while yelling insults.

Yesterday, the protesters clashed with the police and pelted them with blue paint as officers battled to clear the area ahead of a royal motorcade.

The country's monarch, King Rama 10 or Maha Vajiralongkorn, is taking part in ceremonies in Thailand to mark the fourth anniversary of the death of his father, King Rama 9 or Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Thailand protests began with calls for democracy but have grown into a movement now calling for reforms of the constitution and reforms of the monarchy, which is shielded from any kind of criticism by strict Lese-majeste laws.

The country's ruling military party have so far tolerated the demonstrations, which are limited to a handful of students and opposition activists.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has cited apparent evidence showing foreign influence and 'bots' stirring up unrest on social media.