A PICNIC promenade concert and pageant will be staged in the centrepiece of the Maidstone Millennium River Park to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

Whatman Park, in St Peter's Street, will be the venue for the Kent Messenger-sponsored event on Saturday, June 1, showcasing the talents of young people in Maidstone. Performers from the county town's Hazlitt Youth Theatre and schools across the borough will take to the River Stage to re-enact scenes from the last 50 years.

The Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra will then serenade the audience while they enjoy a picnic by the river. The event will reach a climax in the evening with a Last Night of the Proms promenade concert.

Maidstone Borough Council's cabinet member for culture and leisure, Cllr John Williams (Lib Dem), said: "As the county town, it is particularly right that Maidstone is taking a leading role in celebrating the Queen's Golden Jubilee. I do hope that everybody, from all parts of our community who want to mark this significant occasion will come to this truly joyous event."

It is not too late for groups to become involved in the concert. Anyone interested in taking part can call the council's cultural and tourism development manager, Richard Powell, on 01622 602362 or email richardpowell@maidstone.gov.uk.