BASILDON’s Jubilee plans have been unveiled, and will feature flaming beacons, tree planting, and community parties.

The events will celebrate the Queen’s 70 years on the throne.

And when beacons are lit in each of the capital cities of the Commonwealth countries to celebrate the landmark at 9.45pm on June 2, four beacons will also be lit at Wat Tyler Country Park in Pitsea, Sun Corner in Billericay, Pound Lane in Laindon, and Wickford Memorial Park.

A Big Jubilee Lunch will take place on June 5, and community leaders and council officers are working on details for events across the communities.

There will also be tree-planting to leave a green legacy of the landmark at South Green Open Space in Billericay, Nevendon Road Recreation Ground in Wickford, Victoria Park in Laindon, Gloucester Park in Basildon and Northlands Park in Pitsea.

Families say they are excited to the celebrations.

Kerry Tilley said: “We love the Queen and think she’s done so well for the country. I think she’s fantastic and is such a great example of what we should all be and aim for.

“I look forward to all the planned celebratory events and things to help us all celebrate. I am sure lots of people will also hold street parties with lots of patriotic cheer too.”

Councillors will discuss the plans at next Wednesday’s meeting of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, but say much of the cost of the festivities should be covered by the existing budget.

The council papers say: “The cost for the purchase of the trees is £6,300 and will be covered through the council’s existing arboricultural budget.

“£40,000 has been earmarked within the existing budget available for community events for the delivery of all other aspects of the programme.

“Should additional funding be required to deliver the programme, as is expected, alternative external sources of funding will be explored.

“Should sufficient funding not be secured for all aspects, officers will liaise with relevant members in order to identify priority aspects of the programme.”