Let's get in party mood for jubilee (From Worcester News)

Let's get in party mood for jubilee

6:10pm Sunday 18th March 2012 in News

THE people of Worcester are being called to get out the flags and bunting to join friends, family and neighbours for a right Royal street party.

Worcester City Council is doing its bit to boost excitement about the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by agreeing to waive all fees on street closures for parties held from Saturday to Tuesday, June 2-5.

The council has already received three formal applications, with a further four or five casual enquiries being made.

The tradition dates back to 1919 when Peace Teas were held to mark the signing of the Treaty of Versailles after the First World War.

The Mayor of Worcester, David Tibbutt, feels there are plenty of reasons to be excited and get planning.

“A street party is a fantastic opportunity for busy neighbours to meet up and for children to play together in a traffic-free area,” he said.

“I’m sure that Worcester residents will be getting together to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee in style.

“The fact the city is hosting a visit by the Queen in July makes this special occasion even more historic.”

In contrast, data obtained from the county’s six councils under the Freedom of Information Act, reveal the county wasn’t exactly gripped by Royal fever when Prince William got married to Kate Middleton last April.

Then only 32 street parties took place across the county with Worcester City Council accounting for just three of those. Wychavon District Council weighed in with 14, the most in the region.

Applications for street parties for the jubilee should be submitted to the city council by Friday, May 4.

For more information, advice and to download an application form go to worcester.gov.uk.