Bolton will mark the Platinum Jubilee Weekend in royal style with highlights including a community picnic and a town centre concert celebrating seven decades of music.

Celebrations will take place across the country during an extended Bank Holiday weekend from Thursday June 2 to Sunday June 5.

Among a packed events schedule in Bolton, Victoria Square will host the Decades of Music concert on Friday June 3 from noon until 10pm.

Bolton Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “Her Majesty the Queen is the first British monarch to celebrate 70 years on the throne, so it is only right that we go all out to mark this historic occasion.

“It is going to be a truly memorable weekend with a real party atmosphere, and we look forward to welcoming you all to Bolton’s Platinum Jubilee festivities.”

There will be music followed by a picnic on the Square along with a classical music concert in Victoria Square on the Saturday from noon to 6pm.

Beacon lighting ceremonies, including at the Parish Church, will kick off the festivities on the Thursday, while a Civic Procession and a service at the Parish Church will take place on the Sunday.

Bolton will be looking its best with the town and district centres decorated with bunting and lamppost banners.

Red, white and blue lighting will be projected across Le Mans Crescent from June 2 onward.

Bolton Council has already confirmed that the normal road closure fees will not apply for anyone planning a Jubilee street party over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Bolton Council’s Libraries and Museums Service will be supporting the celebrations with a series of family friendly activities.

Applications for road closures close on Friday, April 29 and the relevant forms are available on the council website.