SOMERSET is gearing up to play its part in a year-long celebration to mark the Queen becoming the first British monarch to be on the throne for 70 years.

People and communities across the county are being urged to get involved to mark the historic Platinum Jubilee in 2022

A new website has been launched at platinumjubileesomerset.org.uk/ featuring plenty of information about how you can take part, either through the Queen’s Green Canopy scheme, by registering a beacon or by organising a street party.

The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative invites individuals and organisations to plant as many trees as possible around the county between now and March and again from next October to the end of 2022.

The project will not only celebrate the Queen’s long reign, but also have a positive impact on the environment and help counter the damaging effects of climate change.

There are various plans for celebrations to mark the Platinum Jubilee, including a four-day national Bank Holiday from Thursday to Sunday, June 2-5.

During this period, there are plans to pay tributes to the Queen by lighting beacons throughout the UK, the Channel Islands, Isle of Man and UK Overseas Territories, plus in each one of the capital cities of Commonwealth countries.

You can find more about registering a beacon in Somerset on the Platinum Jubilee Somerset website.

The UK has a long history of organised street parties to celebrate national events, and the Platinum Jubilee will be no different. Visit the Platinum Jubilee Somerset website for guidance on arranging a street party on Sunday, June 5 as part of the celebrations.

Annie Maw, Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, said: “I hope that throughout Somerset all our communities will use and enjoy this new website.

"It gives us the guidance we need in coordinating our plans to celebrate this unique and historic milestone across the county.

"This single point of reference will allow us to source all the information we require to work together, as we strive to proudly produce what will be the very best tribute to mark and express our gratitude to Her Majesty The Queen.”

To find out more visit the Platinum Jubilee Somerset website platinumjubileesomerset.org.uk/