STREET parties to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee are being planned across Redbridge.

But anyone who wants to close their road off for a bash during the long weekend of June 2-5, needs to put in an official request to the council.

The local authority will grant permission to close residential roads free of charge, but applications must be in by April 20.

Cllr Ruth Clark is chairwoman of Redbridge's Diamond Jubilee Panel. She said: "We are hoping for around 150 street parties which is the number we had in the borough for the Silver Jubilee.

"The street parties for last year's Royal Wedding were so good and really helped promote community spirit.

"It's great to see people getting to know each other."

To date, 28 street party applications have been received by the council.

And while residents are encouraged to organise their own party, help may be available if people need extra money to hire tables or pay for bunting as area committees have put aside £11,000 for the occasion.

Jill Stock, 64, is organising a party in Cranbourne Avenue, Wanstead.

She said: "We had a Silver Jubilee party back in 1977 and through that I made a lot of close friends.

"People should definitely apply to have a party in June. It's so good for the community and will really bring people together."

To apply for permission to close your road for a street party, visit redbridge.gov.uk and search for 'street parties'.

To apply for help with funding your party, call Antoinette Davis on 020 8708 2352 or email antoinette.davis@redbridge.gov.uk.