THE Queen's Diamond Jubilee was celebrated with great gusto in Northlew. Proceedings started at the playing field when the Rev Stuart Wilson introduced the 'tree planter', Pat Durston.

The tree, a magnolia, was duly 'patted' in and, hopefully, will thrive in its new home. It is marked by a plaque which will be a reminder of a memorable weekend in the country's history.

Back at the square tables decorated with red, white and blue were laden with a variety of food brought by people in the village and around. A lovely addition to the tables were large baskets of flowers, also in the colours of the flag.

The school children danced around the maypole, Northlew Silver Band played and members of NADS gave a brilliant pageant of important events that have occurred during the Queen's reign.

During the afternoon aerial photos of all present were taken. The barn dance which had been planned to be in the Square had to move to the Victory Hall due to rain, but was well supported.

On Sunday there were special services for the jubilee in church and chapel and , on Sunday evening, a musical celebration was held in the parish church. Dr Marilyn Livingstone was musical director, Derek Chivers the organist and the Rev Ruth Hansford the announcer.

The programme began with an item from the church choir who sang 'O taste and see how gracious the Lord is' followed by 'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace'. The performers included Mary Eade (violin), Vicky Evans (cello), Roger Bowden (soloist), Grant and Philippa Mansfield (classical guitar and flute) and Morwenna Millership, Laurie Light and Graham Mansbridge who play a variety of jazz, folk, swing etc, also holding accoustic sessions at the Green Dragon on the first Monday monthly.

All this was a rare treat for Northlew and much appreciated by the audience of more than 60 people.

On Monday evening Tony ran a bus up to the bonfire near Durdon Cross, the fire being duly sent up at ten o'clock to link up with all the others all over the country and the commonwealth. Throughout the weekend the church bells were rung many times.

Thanks were expressed to the parish council members who worked hard to organise these celebrations.