The Platinum Jubilee: Celebrating the Queen's 70-year reign

As the nation including our area gears up to honour of Queen Elizabeth II becoming the longest-serving British monarch in history, if you have yet to decide how mark the occasion in our area there is still plenty of time to join in the fun, with a special event in Letchworth town centre this weekend.

The Queen has had three major jubilees: silver in 1977, marking 25 years on the throne. Golden in 2002, when Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother passed away - and diamond in 2012, when she became the second UK monarch to reach that milestone after Queen Victoria.

Howard Park in Letchworth is being earmarked as the best venue to host as many families as possible.

LetchworthFest said: "Trying to capture all the jubilee celebrations is like trying to nail party jelly to a wall. New ones keep popping up each day! And as a result some of the previously publicised intended events have changed.

"So, in order not to eclipse the community events and other planned celebrations, the 'Big Lunch' on 4th June is now a DIY picnic party in any greenspace that you choose to use. 

"Howard Park is probably the best venue - grab some food, family, friends, picnic blanket and maybe some bunting to help people find you - and celebrate together, in your own way. Don't forget that the Best Before Cafe has lots of food to rescue - save food, and save your pennies on the picnic."

Our town's numerous events have been grouped into themes: 'big jamborees' in the town centre, community get togethers in your local neighbourhood, events for children, events for families, festivities with a fitness flavour, celebrating local as well as royal heritage, and everyone's favourite the classic Afternoon Tea. 

"I think we'll all have had so many scones and Victoria sponges by the end of this weekend, that we'll be powered by sugar for the rest of June," added LetchworthFest.