SOUTHEND Council is offering its help to any neighbours planning to get involved with this year's Big Lunch event.

On Sunday, July 18, the Eden Project wants people across Britain to sit down with their neighbours in streets, parks or playgrounds and celebrate their communities.

The council is offering offer suggestions and advice for neighbours who would like to organise street parties to let them get to know each other.

Last year, Big Lunches took place across Southend with neighbours eating lunch in the street, playing music and decorating their roads.

More than two million people nationwide took part in last year’s Big Lunch and nine million people are expected to take part in this year’s.

Residents who register their event with the council can take advantage of a scheme to help pay for public liability insurance and to help cover the costs of road closures.

If a road closure is not possible, park and school playgrounds will be made available, while large landowners such as the National Trust and The Church of England have also offered land.

The council’s deputy leader, John Lamb, said: “We are delighted to be supporting The Big Lunch 2010.”

To register your Big Lunch event or to get guidance, call the council’s events team on 01702 215000 ext 4360 or go to the website, www.southend.gov.uk For more information on the Big Lunch, try the Big Lunch website at www.thebiglunch.co.uk.