BIG CELEBRATIONS have been planned to take place in Rogate and Milland for the Queen’s 90th birthday this weekend.
A peal from the church bells will ring in a royal-themed village fete in Rogate on Saturday between 2pm and 5pm. In the arena, a tug-of-war battle between farmers and footballers takes place at 4.15pm.
There will be a Rogate Bake Off too, a human fruit machine, demonstrations by spinners, weavers, beekeepers and woodland craft folk, a fun dog show and children’s races. Money raised from the fete will go to the upkeep of the village hall and recreation ground.
Fabulous teas and cakes fit for a royal garden party are promised, and there will be plenty of royal-themed classes – in photography, baking, flower arranging, crafting and children’s classes.
On Sunday there is a Festal Benefice Eucharist at Trotton Church at 9am before a Songs of Praise Thanksgiving Service at Rogate recreation ground at 11am.
A hog roast celebratory luncheon will be held at Rogate Recreation Marquee at 12.30pm.
The cost to take part is £5 for adults and older children and free to children under ten.
The celebratory mood will be shared by Milland which is hosting a Big Village Street Party on Sunday.
This is a bring-your-own picnic lunch and drinks event on the recreation ground at 1pm, with a jazz band playing to set the mood.
Villagers are invited to look the part for a Best Dressed Queen competition or to wear something patriotic.
Old-fashioned games will be brought out for the children at 2pm, along with a bouncy castle and ‘make a crown’ activities.
Tickets are available from the village shop and The Rising Sun. The cost is £20 per table to take part.