On Thursday 2nd June, thousands of Orpingtonians descended upon Market Square for the town's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, organised by Orpington 1st Business Improvement District (BID).
A regal line-up of entertainment spanning 12 hours began with a screening of Trooping the Colour and culminated with the lighting of the town's Official Jubilee Beacon and fireworks.
Face painting, Punch & Judy, and Crown Making kept younger ones regaled, whilst favourite musical moments among older subjects included the unbridled ardour of The Renegade Blues Brothers and the inimitable reggae lilt of Dread Centre.
The glorious Abba Dollz brought out the dancing queen in everyone.
With the whole day expertly hosted by compere Paul Evers, official proceedings included The Proclamation, led by Deputy Lieutenant Geoffrey Thompson, preceded by a prayer led by Rev George Rogers of All Saints, and followed by the national anthem and a toast to Her Majesty The Queen led by toastmaster and Orpington 1st director, Gary Valentine-Fuller - all sandwiched by toe-tapping swing songs from The Polkadots.
Roaming band Das Brass spread the sounds of celebration across the high street and a short film showcasing the best of Britain and highlighting magic moments in popular culture, science, sport, and geopolitics throughout her majesty's 70 glorious years was shown on the big screen.
Deputy Mayor of Bromley Cllr. Christine Harris undertook the lighting of the beacon, accompanied by a piper, a bugler, and the specially commissioned song for the commonwealth, before a firework finale ensured a majestic start to the extended bank holiday.
Orpington 1st BID Manager Chris Travers said, "There’s been an incredible atmosphere in town today and it really has demonstrated the best of Orpington. On behalf of our business community, huge thanks to all who joined us.”
Sharon Baldwin, Executive Director, added "thanks to everyone who helped make this a very special celebration and such a memorable and happy occasion. Events are an important part of our programme, and it is a joy to have organised and delivered one that was so well attended by all ages. The unique sprit of Orpington’s community shone as brightly as our beacon.”
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