THE bells will be ringing out across Lifton in celebration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee on June 3.

They will mark the start of what will be a busy, but memorable and historic day in the life of the village.

It will begin with a special service of thanksgiving for the Diamond Jubilee in the parish church of St Mary at 10am. Everyone will be welcome and refreshments will be served after the service.

This will be followed by a village fete and fun day with a variety of entertainment, games, stalls, sports and a tug of war competition.

There will be a bar and barbecue, light refreshments and afternoon teas and the day will end with a disco in the sports pavilion.

The events will take place at the Recreation Ground on Leat Road, Lifton, from 1pm until late.

The highlight of the day will be the dedication of the recreation field at 2pm. The Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon, who is the Queen's representative, will rename the ground 'The Queen Elizabeth the Second Recreation Ground'.

The renaming of the ground is happening under the auspices of the 'Fields in Trust' organisation, whose patron is Prince William. It will ensure the field will be protected in perpetuity for the use of the people of Lifton and beyond for sport, play and leisure.

After the dedication, children in the parish will be presented with a souvenir to commemorate the Jubilee. Both West Devon MP Geoffrey Cox, and West Devon Borough councillor Donald Horn will be present.

Everyone is welcome to join in celebrating an event which for many will only happen once in a lifetime. All funds raised will be divided between the recreation ground and the proposed new community hall.