OKEHAMPTON is bursting with a programme of events to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee over the public holiday weekend in June.
Churches Together in Okehampton will be holding an ecumenical Jubilee Praise at 11.30am on Sunday June 2 in Simmons Park before the jewel in Okehampton's crown becomes a haven of family fun in the afternoon.
Mayor of Okehampton Christine Marsh will be opening the event at 1.30pm with a range of children's sports kick starting the afternoon, followed by refreshments, Chris James the magician at 3.30pm and a disco.
There will be a host of stalls and games, bouncy castle, pony rides, a free swimming session at Okehampton Swimming Pool from 2.30pm to 5.30pm for the older children and the Town Band will be playing.
It is hoped the Wren Trust will also be bringing along singers and musicians to add some extra entertainment. There will be a display by Extreme Sports and the Fire Brigade will be coming along.
Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council will also have a marquee in the park promoting local food and providing cream teas and a barbecue.
A tug of war competition is being held between local hostelries and sports clubs and a children's painting competition is being planned.
For the adults a disco and fish supper will follow in Okehampton Conservative Club but tickets are limited. Contact the town hall on 01837 53179 for more information.
Organiser of the family fun day Cllr Perry Vallance is interested in hearing from anyone else who wants to run a games stall in the park such as skittles — all the prizes will be provided. Contact him on 01837 52417.
Okehampton Lions are getting in the swing with a tea dance for the senior citizens on Monday, June 3 at 3pm in the Charter Hall.
The event is completely free but entry is by ticket only and these must be obtained by May 27 from any Lions member or from Donalds Menswear in Okehampton.
Lions will be serving cream teas and Derek Hutchings will be providing the music. John Hawkins and Jeffe Cunliffe have agreed to bring along extensive collections of old photographs so people can reminisce.
Last but not least throughout the weekend a Jubilee Flower Festival is being held in St James' Chapel involving many of the town's organisations.