A gift from Lancashire

The special gift should represent the county and does not need to be worth a king's ransom!

Creativity is the key to success in this competition and groups, companies and individuals are all invited to design a unique gift, inspired by the county.

Lord Shuttleworth, the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, is one of the judges and has offered some advice on preparing the perfect gift, fit for a queen.

"The Queen has strong connections to Lancashire as the Duke of Lancaster -- a role the monarch15

has continued for more than 600 years," said Lord Shuttleworth.

"Her last visit to the county was in 1999 -- for the 600th anniversary when she visited the the Priory Church in the Duchy of Lancaster and unveiled Eric Morecambe's statue."

The Queen and her family appreciate the thought and effort that goes into such a competition, according to Lord Shuttleworth. "Her interests outside her royal duties may play a part in designing the gift. She loves the countryside of Lancashire and the Queen has received horses and dogs as gifts -- which she loves.

"However, I think the people of Lancashire should show their originality and draw on the heritage -- maybe something to do with textiles or some tasty Lancashire food, a practical gift is always well received."

So put your thinking caps on and write down in no more than 50 words what it is you would like to present to the Queen. You may wish to explain why your gift idea is significant, as judges may take this into account when making their decision.

Send your gift idea to the Jubilee Gift Competition, The Citizen, 45-47, Pall Mall, Chorley, PR7 3CT.

Remember to include your name, address, and daytime phone number. The closing date is July 4 and winners must be available on August 5 to present their gift to the Queen in Preston. The judges' decision is final, no correspondence will be entered in to.