Invite to Big Lunch

CHIPPING Sodbury's Big Lunch will once again be celebrating a royal milestone.

People are being invited to come and join this year's community takeover of Broad Street, which will be held on Sunday May 7, the day after King Charles III's Coronation and the middle of the second of three bank holiday weekends in the month.

Last year the Big Lunch marked the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee and was one of dozens of street parties and special events held across the district.

This time South Gloucestershire Council has not reported fewer official street closures in the district, with Chipping Sodbury’s Big Lunch is likely to be the biggest Coronation event locally – thousands expected to join the party as Broad Street is closed to traffic.

Organisers say there will be bands, dance acts and entertainment. Families are being invited to bring their own chairs and tables, and picnic, although local cafes and pubs are also set to open serving food and drink .

Alexandra Dent, from the voluntary committee that organises the event, said: “It is part of the organising committee’s ethos never to charge for anything at the Big Lunch and particularly this year with the cost of living crisis, we want to make sure everyone in our community has the opportunity to celebrate the Coronation.

“The line up this year includes some bands, dance acts and entertainment as well as fund for the children with bubble fun and a make your own crown competition.

“To honour the new King's love of nature, people can also take part in a miniature garden competition, which they should make in advance but bring on the day.

“There will be plenty of Union Jacks and a chance to enjoy our great British spirit - so put the date in your diary!”