Community heroes celebrated at Jubilee lunch and service

Hundreds of local ‘community heroes’ were rewarded with a celebratory lunch on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

They had been invited by the Mayor of Bury, Councillor Shaheena Haroon, and enjoyed afternoon tea and entertainment at the Castle Armoury on Sunday.

Immediately before the lunch, a service of thanksgiving was held at Bury Parish Church where the Reverend Julian Heaton, Rector of Bury, led a service to mark the 70th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II.

Among the celebratory comments were:

Jumoke Ilevbabor, founder of the African and Caribbean Women’s Centre, said: “I had a really good time at the Jubilee lunch. It was a very happy occasion in which all sectors of the Bury community were represented. People turned out in their numbers to attend the event and Bury Council did not leave any stone unturned in ensuring that guests had a lovely time. I will definitely remember the occasion for many years to come. I give kudos to the council for putting together such an amazing Jubilee lunch.”

Volunteers from Bury Blind Society said they thoroughly enjoyed the whole afternoon. They wanted to pass on their thanks, and stated that, after all the pressures of the past two plus years, it was lovely to come along to such a positive event and see others enjoying themselves too.

Jon Shaw, from the 44th R.O.B.O.T (Bury and Ramsbottom) Scouts, said: “My partner and I enjoyed the lunch. It was nice to be recognised, more so for my partner Cathy Bladen who worked tirelessly right through the pandemic as a care worker, contracting Covid twice and still doing her job now.”

And the young people there were happy too:

Amelia: “I had a fantastic time; the food was great and I enjoyed having lots of pictures taken on the throne and singing.”

Emily (7), who attended as a Beaver, said: "I loved it. Especially the yummy cakes! And all of the singing and dancing."

Jack, a scout (11), said: "I loved the singing and dancing and would love to do it all again!"

Cllr Haroon said: “We ae blessed to have so many community heroes in our borough, dedicated to looking after their neighbours, loved ones and all those in need. This was a lovely event and, on a day we all celebrated the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, a fitting way to show our appreciation for all the good that they do.”

The lunch was one of many Jubilee events taking place across the borough: from the East Lancashire Railway to Bury Parish Church, The Rock and the Mill Gate, and the Jubilee picnic in Clarence Park. Roads were also closed across the borough for street parties, and hundreds attended the beacon lighting at Peel Tower.