MAKING IT EASY TO HAVE A RIGHT ROYAL KNEES UP!

Bedford Borough Council is offering extra help to local residents who want to celebrate the Royal Wedding by holding their own street parties.

On Friday 29th April, Prince William and Kate Middleton will be married at Westminster Abbey in front of thousands of people in London and millions on TV around the world.

The help on offer should make it easy for friends or neighbours, parish councils, resident associations or any other community group to plan their street party so that it goes with a swing! In fact, it's so easy to organise your own street party - all you need is a pen!

Street parties usually require a road closure notice, as well as public liability insurance and in some cases special licenses for alcohol and entertainment. However, Bedford Borough Council is now making a specially designed form available for local residents to make the process simpler and easier. In addition, the Council, in most cases is waiving the cost of road closures and insurance usually required.

Bedford Borough Council's Events Team will also be running two street party sessions where you can have all your questions about planning your street party answered. The sessions are open for all to attend and will be at 2.30pm and 6.30pm on Tuesday 1st March in the Harpur Suite. For more information email: events@bedford.gov.uk

Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: "I am delighted that we are able to help local residents come together and remove some of the hassle from organising a street or public party to celebrate the Royal Wedding. Street parties are always a great way to make new friends or just get to know your neighbours better and a series of street parties across the borough will help to create a positive community atmosphere.

"Even if you are just considering a party, get in touch, or come to one of our introductory sessions and see if you and your friends would like to join the party!"