With three months to go until the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III on Saturday, May 6, information and advice is being compiled to help communities plan their celebrations.
It is anticipated that communities across the District, whether at street or neighbourhood level, or entire villages and towns, will be looking to put the flags out, string up the bunting, lay out trestle tables and plan parties over the extended weekend, as they did with such enthusiasm for last summer’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
The Coronation programme will include the procession and service at Westminster Abbey on May 6, the ‘Coronation Big Lunch’ across the country on May 7, with an evening concert in Windsor, and ‘The Big Help Out’ community activity on the bank holiday, Monday May 8.
Chairman of North Kesteven District Council, Chairman, Cllr Lucille Hagues, said: “Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort have expressed a hope that the Coronation Weekend will provide an opportunity to spend time and celebrate with friends, families and communities across the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth.
“Individual and collaborative efforts within local communities will be central to making this a momentous weekend of UK-wide celebration. I encourage everyone who can, to think how they might mark this moment in a manner that includes, encourages and brings joy to those around them – whether by inviting a neighbour for tea or going all out and planning a village gala or fun day.
“There was so much colour and festivity around Queen Elizabeth’s landmark celebration last year as we all recalled the collective joy in coming together and I am sure that once again we will all be keen to bring neighbours together and to unite as communities.”
The District Council has a central role to play in helping communities in their preparations – through its licensing, environmental health, food hygiene, waste and street scene functions for instance, and The Chairman of the Council would welcome the opportunity to attend and support events. Call on 01529 308220 or email corporateandcivicsupport@n-kesteven.gov.uk with any invitations.
It is important to remember when planning any street parties that road closures must be applied for, as may certain entertainment or event licenses, and that any bunting or decorations should be hung to allow access for bin lorries operating on working days (including on the Bank Holiday Monday) and any large or emergency vehicles.
Please also consider ways to minimise waste, promote recycling and progress climate action in anything you do.
As it did in advance of the Platinum Jubilee, the Council will share on its website and through a newsletter a comprehensive guide to grant funding, useful advice, digital and downloadable resources from Buckingham Palace and top tips for party planning – in line with the King’s stated aims for inclusivity, sustainability, low-cost, low-carbon, low-impact celebrations and broad community benefit.
To sign-up for the newsletter go to www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/stayconnected
There will also be a guide to known events and activities at www.heartoflincs.com To get your community activity listed for free, email: heartoflincs@n-kesteven.gov.uk.
The following may be of further assistance
Street Parties
Applications should be made through Lincolnshire County Council -
Guidance on how to organise a street party can be found at – www.gov.uk/organise-street-party
So too, for ‘Street Meets’ which offer an even easier way to bring neighbours together – www.streetparty.org.uk/guide/street-meet
The Coronation Big Lunch
The Coronation Big Lunch, on Sunday May 7, encourages communities to come together, celebrate their connections and get to know each other better. See www.edenprojectcommunities.com/the-big-lunch
The Big Help Out
The Big Help Out, on Monday May 8, is an opportunity to get involved in community improvement and showcase the impact of volunteering within communities. See www.thebighelpout.org.uk
National Lottery funding
Funding up to £10,000 is available for events and activities through the National Lottery Awards for All programme. While this fund does not have a deadline, it can take up to 12 weeks from the point of application submission to receiving funding, which means applications for the Coronation weekend should be made before the middle of February. All funding criteria and terms and conditions are here.
Further Information
Information relating to the specifics of the Coronation and any materials such as free-to-use authorised photos, downloadable colouring sheets etc are likely to be posted periodically at www.royal.uk See also: www.royal.uk/coronation
The Coronation Concert
Five thousand pairs of tickets are available via public ballot to join in the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle on Saturday, May 7.
With tickets set to be allocated to ensure a geographic spread of attendees, there’s as much chance of getting tickets whether you apply early or late. Applications close at midnight on February 28. Apply at www.bbc.co.uk/coronationconcert