2022 marks the occasion of HRH Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee and in fact, I am writing this article on the anniversary of her father’s death, February 6, 1952, when she actually became Queen. Traditionally, her Jubilee celebrations have always been held on the anniversary of the same year of her accession, even though her Coronation wasn’t held until the following year, in 1953.
I am old enough (just!) to remember the Silver Jubilee in 1977 of which I have very fond memories (except for the fact that I lost my emu’s foot when I was on a carnival float!). We made crowns (mine won - but I did nick all the jewels from my brother’s Buccaneer board game!) and had a street party where we were based (on an army estate in Londonderry), and paraded around the area in a carnival float to celebrate.
Fast forward 45 years and we now have the opportunity to celebrate the longest reigning Queen, 70 years on the throne. Here in Ramsgate, we hope to have a suitable party - fitting for our nonagenarian monarch!
If you would like to get involved in helping with the celebratory events that we hope to have over the special June Bank Holiday, or your road is having a street party, please do let me know. We are always looking for volunteers to help out at events and would be grateful for support with marshalling, litter picking and advising the visiting public. If you are hosting a street party, we are happy to post about it on our social media platforms, whether to publicise the event or show off your photos afterwards!
Meanwhile, we will be making special bunting for the occasion in purple, silver and white to replace the bunting that was made by many residents over the past two years. Would you believe, we made over three kilometres of bunting for the town centre and boat owners? We would love to make even more for this special year, so if you would like to offer your skills or can loan a sewing machine, please get in touch!
Being able to celebrate this auspicious occasion in this wonderful town is something I am grateful for, and I hope we can create lasting childhood memories over the June Bank Holiday. Just make sure your emu’s feet are firmly fixed to his legs!