WOODLEY residents came together on Jubilee Thursday to light a Platinum Jubilee beacon in Woodford Park.
The mayor of Woodley Town Council, Cllr Janet Sartorel, welcomed people to the short ceremony starting at 9.45pm, before taking the large taper to light the crown-shaped beacon.
The crowds applauded as the Bel Canto Chorus sang the special jubilee anthem, A Song for the Commonwealth.
Cllr Sartorel then joined the choir to lead everyone in the singing of the national anthem.
Although this was the end of the proceedings, those attending stayed to chat with friends, take pictures of the beacon and enjoy its warmth.
“It felt extremely special to light the beacon – I feel honoured,” said Cllr Sartorel.
“I’m delighted to be mayor at this historic time.”
She said she had enjoyed watching the Trooping The Colour ceremony from London, and the beacon lighting came at the end of a “wonderful day”.
“The Bel Canto Chorus helped make the event, they’ve added to the occasion, and it felt quite moving to be with the choir singing the national anthem,” she said.
“One of the main things was seeing how many people in Woodley turned out tonight, it’s been absolutely wonderful,” she added. “I think everybody enjoyed it very much.”
Are you celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee this weekend? Holding a street party? A right royal knees-up?
If so, send in your photos for the chance to feature in our special jubilee edition available on Thursday, June 9.
Please email your photos to news@wokingham.today
