People in Westbury are being encouraged to get on board and help organise a series of events to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year.

Westbury Town Council has set up a committee to develop ideas and plan for the momentous occasion, with parties, concerts and competitions between June 2 and 5 next year.

The committee is being chaired by councillor and former mayor Sue Ezra who wants representatives from across the community to join her.

She said: “We’re hoping to get as many people involved as possible.

“We’ve already written to a number of groups such as the Scouts, Brownies, Army cadets and the British Legion. We want to make it a real community event.

“The committee would very much welcome ideas and suggestions from across all our local community, including residents, groups, organisations and business.

“In addition practical help and assistance would be greatly appreciated.”

The Diamond Jubilee Committee will meet regularly to co-ordinate the town’s contribution to what will be a long weekend of celebrations.

Cllr Ezra added: “In Westbury we have extensive experience mounting successful events such as the street fair, Christmas in Westbury and the Arts and Music Festival, so we are hoping to do something really special with an exciting programme of events, activities and celebrations to match the occasion. We’re looking at a number of events already like a childrens’ party, a street party and an evening concert.

“We are also planning to have our annual market during that week and a mixed faith church service, also in the Market Place.

“We would also like to light the beacon at the White Horse and have some strobe lighting too.”

The committee is also planning to publish a commemorative programme for the occasion about the Queen’s reign and how Westbury and its surrounding villages have changed and grown in that time.

To get involved or for further details of planned public meetings, call Barbara Mantle, assistant to the town clerk at Westbury Town Council, on 01373 822232.