STREET parties, live music events and a coastline of flaming beacons are among the events to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council is working closely with individuals, charities and other organisations to co-ordinate different events.

As well as events in communities, it is hoped fires will be lit from Sutton Poyntz, along Weymouth Bay to the Nothe Fort, the Verne Prison and Portland Bill.

Councillor Margaret Leicester, who will be Mayor of Weymouth and Portland during the celebration in June, believes the occasion could even top the Olympics.

She said: “A lot of people are feeling a bit divorced from the Olympics, but the Jubilee is something people can really get involved in.”

She added: “The events will really bring communities together, because there will be lots going on, from street parties to music festivals.

“But, as always, someone has got to take the initiative, and I would love to see even more people taking the opportunity to get involved.”

The plans were discussed at a meeting at the Pavilion yesterday to finalise dates and times for the launch of the borough council’s Jubilee events programme.

It is hoped the booklet will appear at the Tourist Information Centre in Weymouth and online within the next few weeks.

Steve Davis, the council’s promotions and events manager, described the programme of events as ‘outstanding’. He added: “Everything that’s going on reflects the great events tradition in the borough, with plenty of imaginative activities.”

“The four-day bank holiday will have something for everyone.”

The events will include a charity walk organised by the Weymouth Lions Club, a concert tribute to rock band Queen at the Nothe Fort, a barn dance in Wyke Square, a parade of boats organised by the Royal Dorset Yacht Club, street parties and various children’s activities co-ordinated by the Chesil Education Partnership.

The Wessex Folk Festival, which coincides with the Jubilee weekend, will also mark the anniversary.

Get involved

Anyone with an idea to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, from private street parties to charity events, or anyone wanting to get involved in the weekend can contact Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s events team on 01305 785747.

Or for more information, visit www.visitweymouth.co.uk