Portsmouth gears up to party for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Portsmouth is to host city-wide street parties and community events in June, to mark 70 years of the Queen’s reign.
In February the council announced they were taking applications from residents who are planning to have a street party during the June 2 - 5, bank holiday weekend. They are also hosting several community events across the city.
The council have currently received 70 street party applications. There were 52 street parties during the Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
The city will also be taking part in the national beacon lighting, with beacons being lit to mark the start of the weekend.
Portsmouth Lord Mayor, Frank Jonas, said that celebrating the Jubilee is particularly important for residents of Portsmouth because of the city’s strong ties to the Royal Navy.
Portsmouth had many royal visits from the Queen’s Royal Yacht Britannia, during its service.
Cllr Jonas said during a Jubilee the Lord Mayor will visit as many parties as possible.
He added: “I remember doing that during my last stint [ Diamond Jubilee], we were going from Southsea right up to Paulsgrove; it was a brilliant day.”
The council is also planning: two community lunch events on Southsea Common and King George V field; an exhibition of civic silver at the Art Gallery and Museum; and environmentally focused projects in every city ward.
Malcolm Procter, of Alver Road, is planning a street party. He said: “It’s important to celebrate the amazing 70 years she’s achieved, in being our Queen. I’m proud of her and proud for the country.”
“I will watch the parades in London and I’m looking forward to all of it.”
He also said that he hopes to take his two young children to the community events.
