A COMMUNITY is determined to crown their Queen's golden jubilee celebrations with a bang this summer.

Residents in and around the village of Croft, near Darlington, have organised a series of events to mark the occasion, and their celebrations will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display.

People in the village are hoping that other communities in the area will be encouraged to do the same and organise celebrations to mark the jubilee.

Charles Headon, chairman of the organising committee, said: "There seems to be so much negative publicity and feeling about the Queen's jubilee that we wanted to show people that it is important to our community - and get rid of all the doom and gloom."

The community's celebrations will begin on June 1 with a tea party in Croft Village Hall, followed by a music and flower event in Croft Church, on June 2. On the evening of June 2, the Chequers Inn, in nearby Dalton, will hold a buffet and quiz night, and visitors will be able to sign a community book to mark the event.

A Pims and wine party will then be held in the village hall on June 3, followed by a 50/50 dance at the Croft Spa Hotel.

The busiest day will be June 3, starting with a service of thanksgiving in Croft Church.

There will be a street party in South Parade, followed by a fancy dress parade through Croft. The day will feature music by Hurworth Concert Band and a barbecue, before a fireworks display marks the finale of the celebrations.