CROWDS flocked to a town shopping centre to “do the Queen proud” by celebrating an historic jubilee bank holiday with food, drink and street performers.
Hundreds packed out Colchester city centre as Red Lion Yard marked the platinum jubilee on Friday.
Taking place between 12pm and 4pm, the event saw decorated tables offering a range of food and drinks stretching through Lion Walk.
Actual Radio was on hand to oversee the live music and DJs, in addition to a close-up magician, balloon-makers and acrobat artists.
With a view of incorporating the old and the new, guests were encouraged to don quirky outfits inspired by any of the decades from the 1950s onwards.
The event, co-funded by Colchester BID, was also used to support the Colchester To Ukraine campaign, which has now generated more than £20,000 for refugees in need.
Martin Leatherdale, Lion Walk shopping centre manager, said: “It was fantastic to continue to welcome in the second day of jubilee celebrations within Lion Walk and the incredible and historic setting of Red Lion Yard – the perfect location for a jubilee party.
“The weather was on top form for Her Majesty and so was the atmosphere in the city centre.
“We had a great line-up with hosts Actual Radio, refreshments provided by Victoria Yum and street entertainers including singers, DJs, acrobats, jugglers, face painters, stilt walkers and balloon-makers.
“We did Her Majesty proud.”
Mr Leatherdale said a highlight of the celebrations was the opening of Colchester’s newest independent store.
“The icing on the cake was officially opening Colchester city’s newest independent store on Friday – Inspire Gems London Boutique – in Red Lion Yard,” he said.
“They have a stunning display of boutique fashion clothing and accessories, a real testament to the future evolution and growth of Colchester as a city and a thank you to Her Majesty for awarding Colchester with city status.”
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