THE country celebrates the coronation of the Queen today, 58 years after she was crowned in Westminster Abbey.

On June 2, 1953, in front of more than 8,000 guests, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Geoffrey Fisher, placed St Edward’s Crown on her head after she took her oath.

A shout of “God Save the Queen” was heard, and gun salutes were fired as crowds cheered.

Back home in East Lancashire, many families had dashed out to buy the new television sets, so they could watch the ceremony at home.

All along the terraced streets, rows of aerials suddenly appeared on the rooftops, and householders welcomed in neighbours to share in the drama of the occasion.

In Rawtenstall, a musical pageant was staged to honour the young Elizabeth II, which was presented and arranged by the borough arts association.

It took place in The Arena, in Whitaker Park, and, with tableaux, music and dance, showcased the passing centuries since the reign of Elizabeth I.

The company was made up of members of local amateur organisations, assisted by the British Legion, St John’s Ambulance, the guides, scouts, public services and civil defence.

Musical continuity was provided by Goodshaw Band, conducted by Mr E Kershaw, and Rossendale Male Voice Choir, conducted by Mr F Tomlinson.

The script was penned by the borough librarian.

The photograph above shows members of the company. It has been sent to us by Stanley Whittaker, of Rossendale, who had one of the only two speaking parts in the pageant and can be seen, third from the left on the middle row.

Fifth from the left is the young girl playing the part of Queen Victoria, but we are not too sure, who was portraying Elizabeth 1.

Britannia was represented by the young man sixth from the right on the back row, and there are some obvious Regency characters to the left of the middle row. Maybe you can pick out other people, or characters, you recognise.