Christopher Pincher Backs “Big Lunch” in Tamworth

Tamworth MP, Christopher Pincher, has given his backing to the “Big Jubilee Lunch” campaign to get local people to join together to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in the spirit of neighbourliness.

The Big Jubilee Lunch was launched at Westminster this week by England rugby legend Phil Vickery who was capped 73 times for his country in a playing career of over fifteen years.  Mr. Vickery said he was proud of his country, proud to be part of the Jubilee celebrations and proud too to be part of an effort to encourage neighbours to get to know one another.

As announced by Buckingham Palace, The Big Lunch will be part of the main programme of events over the Diamond Jubilee weekend in June.  Holding a Big Jubilee Lunch is a great way to bring neighbours together for an afternoon of food, friendship and fun and a record number of people are expected to take to the streets on Sunday 3rd June.

In 1977, some 10million people came out to street parties to celebrate the Silver Jubilee and organisers expect the same level of excitement in 2012.

Mr. Pincher said, “The Big Jubilee Lunch is an excellent initiative that I hope will be supported by the council, churches and charities.  I encourage local residents and local groups to get involved and organise community lunches.  It is a great way to make contact with your neighbours and check up on frail and vulnerable people that they are OK and also involved in the party.

“In the past people have been concerned about all the bureaucracy of holding street parties and some local authorities have been confused about the rules.  That is why I have asked Transport Minister Mike Penning to write to all councils explaining how to close a road for a street party and to ensure everything is made simple.  He has agreed to contact all councils as soon as possible.”

Actress Barbara Windsor, a Big Lunch Ambassador, said, “It is an absolute pleasure to champion The Big Jubilee Lunch.  To once again see communities and neighbours work together to create such special occasions is heart warming and just what we need.  I am so excited to be involved in what promises to be an exciting and historic year.”

For more information about The Big Lunch and how local residents can get involved call for a pack on 0845 850 8181, email info@thebiglunch.com or visit the website www.thebiglunch.com.

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