Birthday Beacon to light up Shipston in April

Shipston is to build a beacon to commemorate The Queen’s 90th birthday on Thursday 21st April.

Along with many other towns and villages across the UK, Shipston will light a beacon as part of the public celebrations of the Queen’s birthday. In addition, at the request of Mayor, Jackie Warner, the town hopes to host a special fireworks display alongside the beacon-lighting. The plan is to create a memorable occasion suitable for all the family.

Shipston has a proud history of building beacons, under the watchful eye of Sid Peachey who passed away recently. Having shared his expertise with other local residents, it is hoped that the April beacon will also be a fitting tribute to Sid’s legacy.

To raise money to fund the fireworks, a special Beacon Bingo night is being held on the 27th February at the Sheldon Bosley Hub (see the advert on page 8). With all efforts being made to secure fantastic prizes, residents are being urged to support the event to help raise as much as possible to make the Queen’s birthday celebrations go off with a real bang.

Jackie Warner said: “This is something I want to do for the town – it’s an important occasion which is why I’d like to see us make it extra special with fireworks to accompany the beacon. Rather than approach the council to fund the event, we are hoping to cover some or all of the costs through our fundraising bingo night.”

More information about the timing of the Beacon and Fireworks event will be published in the April edition of the Shipston Forum.