ideas and plans for celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year, will be forwarded by a committee which has been set up with the support of Westbury Town Council.
The Westbury Diamond Jubilee Committee will be chaired by town councillor, Sue Ezra, who will be supported by representatives from across the community.
The committee will meet regularly to co-ordinate the town’s contribution to what will become an extended weekend of celebrations. An extra bank holiday has been granted for Tuesday 5th June 2012 and the late May holiday will be moved to 4th June, providing a special four-day break.
The committee would very much welcome ideas and suggestions from across the local community – residents, groups, organisations and business. In addition, practical help and assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Cllr Sue Ezra comments, “In Westbury, we have extensive experience of mounting successful events such as the ‘Street Fayre’, ‘Christmas in Westbury’ and the ‘Arts & Music Festival’ so we are hoping to do something really special with an exciting programme of events, activities and celebrations to match the occasion.”
Ideas already put forward include: • Open air music and dancing • Jubilee church services and bell ringing • Street parties/fayre • Fancy dress competition • Lighting the White Horse/ Jubilee Beacon.
To get involved or for further information and details of planned public meetings please contact Barbara Mantle, assistant to the town clerk, Westbury Town Council on 01373 822232.
As in previous years of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977 and her Golden Jubilee in 2002, a commemorative Diamond Jubilee medal will be issued, which is traditionally presented to some members of the armed forces, emergency services and the royal household.
A national competition will be launched for towns to bid for city status.
Only one other British monarch has celebrated a Diamond Jubilee and that was Queen Victoria in 1897.
