BASILDON put on a show for the coronation of King Charles III as large parties filled with music, food and fun packing streets across the borough.
The threat of heavy showers failed to dampen the mood as residents joined together to mark Great Britain’s first coronation in 70 years on Saturday.
Dozens of street party licences were granted ahead of the bank holiday weekend and in true British fashion - residents refused to let a few showers ruin their fun.
Carmen Buckley, chairman of the East Thorpe street party, said: “It was brilliant. We had a lot of rain but it was lovely.
“I love the Royals. I think it’s important to have them as it’s tradition and we feel they belong to us.
“I was a bit surprised with the turn-out considering the weather.”
Gazebos covered in bunting filled the street, and a large speaker and microphone system filled the air with music.
Champagne was popped as residents came together for fun and a party in Mistley Community Hall.
The hall was decked out in colourful bunting, flags and balloons.
Tracey Wood, treasurer of Mistley Community Hall, said: “It was big success with about 50 people coming along.
“I think it’s important as it’s a chance to get the community together.
“I do love the Royals and I like Charles – I think he reminds me of my dad.
“We had a brilliant day.”
There were dozens of street parties across the borough with road closures in Shakespeare Avenue, Basildon, East Thorpe, Basildon, Highlands Crescent, Bowers Gifford, Passingham Avenue, Billericay, Tangmere Close, Wickford and many more.
Families and residents joined together in Highlands Crescent, Bowers Gifford, on Saturday, with an impressive spread of food and loud party music.
Karen Watts said: “We had a great street party with around 80 people attending.
“What better way could you celebrate the new King? It was a great atmosphere with family, friends and neighbours all in attendance.”
She joked that the event went on well into the night as the close-knit community came together for the King.
Residents enjoyed colourful fun at the Basildon Side by Side and Hope for African Communities event at Wat Tyler Park, yesterday.
The Mistley Estate in the town held events on Saturday and Sunday. Andy Hillion attended and helped organise Sunday’s event.
He said the party was put together at short notice but everyone had a great time.
He said: “It was quickly put together at short notice on Friday, by the newly-formed Mistley Neighbourhood Alliance.
“We have had 30-plus attending with musical statues and pass the parcel for the kids, with drawing and colouring.
“We have got lots of fact sheets about past and present coronations and had quizzes for the adults, with a variety of food from around the estate even some banitsa - a national food from Bulgaria.
“It has been a great time for all and a chance for residents to take their minds off current issues and problems.”
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