Jubilee will be tree-mendous

The money will go towards creating a "Jubilee Wood", helping street party organisers, producing a fantastic firework display, and providing flags along the Promenade to ensure a right Royal time is had by all.

The lion's share of the cash will be spent on getting youngsters involved in planting trees at various locations to create the Jubilee Wood as a lasting legacy for the town, said a council spokesperson.

"Children will also receive a commemorative First Day Cover to give them something to take home and treasure," she added.

Tourism bosses will fly the flag for the resort by decorating the Promenade with Union Jacks and staging a loud and colourful fireworks display for residents and visitors.

There's also extra cheer for those already preparing for street parties to mark the national event.

The cost of providing insurance cover, safety signage and barriers for street parties -- costs not imposed by the council -- are to be waived for the 13 organisations that have already formally expressed an interest in staging a pavement party.

In addition, the council will waive its own usual costs for such events and will also waive them for other organisations coming forward before the May 10 deadline. "People have to apply to hold a street party before then because of the time it takes to organise road closure orders," the spokesperson explained.

"The insurance costs being waived can only cover street parties that don't include fireworks, which would need additional insurance cover."

Council leader Roy Fisher said: "The Queen's Golden Jubilee is not only a major historic milestone but also provides a unique opportunity to turn the spotlight on Blackpool.

"It's something for all ages to come together and enjoy and we hope that the activities being planned by the council and events staged by other local businesses and organisations will make it a moment we'll all look back on with pride and remember for a long time to come."