The Beacon lighting ceremony opens our Jubilee festival for people to enjoy whilst marking the fact that 70 years ago Queen Elizabeth II was crowned. The coronation is something a number of local residents will recall. Younger generations won`t have those memories but will be excited to take part in this significant event. We are inviting two neighbouring village communities to our celebration and following this colourful and joyous start we will offer 3 days of events including exhibitions by local artists as well as 50s memorabilia together with an intergenerational reminiscence project to be filmed and available for all to view. A dog show, a cake baking competition and an afternoon tea at a 1950s themed fete to close our celebrations. We want to give pleasure to, and connect with, all sectors of the community and be as inclusive as possible. We have taken on board many local people`s ideas and found that there is a lot of local enthusiasm and skill to be harnessed.

What we'll deliver:

• Attract local skills and talent in building the Beacon and its supportive structure
• Engage local people in determining the entertainment and refreshment available on the night
• Publicise the event well in advance so that everyone's expectations are raised
• Ensure that everything is available for an exciting and enjoyable time.
• Deliver an exciting and memorable night's programme of entertainment surrounding the lighting of the Beacon

Why it's a great idea:

It starts a few days of activities that all are invited to take part in and to volunteer to help with. It should bring individuals and local organisations and groups together in a way that has rarely happened. We hope the memories it provides will be long lasting and precious and this will see a legacy of co-production, confidence and trust in the community. Relationships across the community will, we would sincerely hope, be stronger following this shared experience. Links will be made between our community and others countrywide planning jubilee events including the lighting of a beacon. This offers a connection and a sense of belonging not normally easily obtained. Launching the celebration of the Platinum Jubilee through the Lighting of the Beacon symbolises much for people including resilience, hope, stability and security. All are important at this time of uncertainty and tension and being able to run an event for local residents which connects them is so positive.

Steps to get it done:

• February 2022: Register the Lighting of the Beacon with the Jubilee Pageant Master
• March 2022: Obtain all necessary approvals, licences and insurance cover
• April 2022: Ensure all public safety requirements have been met and that entertainment and refreshment has been arranged
• May 2022: Complete the creation of beacon, its pole and setting
• June 2022: installation of the beacon and the holding of the celebratory event