2nd - 5th June 2022
Alton’s four days of Jubilee celebrations began Thursday with a children’s tea party fit for royalty where local children delighted in decorating their very own crowns and face painting in a red, white and blue theme.
In the evening it was the adults’ turn to party at the Big Beacon Bash where the guest of honour, Verna Renshaw, proudly waved to party attendees as she arrived in style in a classic ruby Austin. As one of the village’s longest serving residents, Verna had been given the honour of lighting the village’s beacon cheered on by the crowd and her family, who came along to support her.
Party goers were treated to not only a delicious hog roast served up by the local Scouts but also a BBQ and vegetarian Dhal before hitting the dancefloor to rock and pop band Squeeze Box, who ensured the party ended on a high note.
On Saturday, the village celebrated its rich heritage and opened up the doors of its many historic buildings, including the iconic round house which once housed the local undesirables. There were tours of the Malthouse’s vast cellars and the last opportunity to climb St Peter’s church tower to view the bells before they were taken down for refurbishment. The local Methodist Church also had displays charting its history and development in the village.
At the Hospital of St John, you could take in unique views of renowned architect AWN Pugin’s magnificent castle from the Warden’s Tower and discover more about the conservation of his work at Alton Towers. Alongside displays of the history of St John’s School and the local guides was a vintage Raleigh bike dating from the year of the coronation, complete with its original purchase receipt.
On Sunday the weather may have not been hospitable for the planned street party, but thanks to the generosity of Alton Castle, residents could still gather in the comfort and dry of a speedily erected marquee on the castle lawn. Spirits were, however, not dampened as the village went all out celebrating together with picnics plus sweet treats provided by St Peter’s School. Rural Brewing was also on hand to ensure they quenched thirsts with their unique mode of bike delivery.
ACE would like to thank everyone that supported, contributed, and helped make these events possible.
