WHITEHAVEN kicked off its Platinum Jubilee celebrations with the town crier making a proclamation to the Queen.

Crowds gathered in St Nicholas’ Gardens fell silent, as town crier Marc Goodwin paid tribute to Her Majesty the Queen, as the nation celebrates her 70 year-reign.

A marquee reception was held in the gardens afterwards, where Don Messenger, 84, was recognized for 44 years’ service with Whitehaven Male Voice Choir.

Mr Messenger and his wife were presented with a hamper and flowers by Edwin Dinsdale, deputy mayor of Whitehaven, who praised him for his long service to the choir.

Cllr Dinsdale said: “For anybody to volunteer for a year is a big deal, but to volunteer for 44 years and to have raised the amount of money that Don has raised for charity. There’s no two ways about it – Don is one in a million.”

Speaking to The Whitehaven News, Mr Messenger said he was “absolutely honoured and privileged” to receive recognition at the Jubilee event.

He said one of the highlights from his time with the choir was singing for the Queen when she visited Whitehaven in 2008.

Mr Messenger also recalled singing at the Royal Albert Hall which he described as “absolutely magical”.

Gerard Richardson, who has organized a programme of events with Whitehaven Town Council to mark the Platinum Jubilee, said: “I think the events have gone brilliantly so far. “The shout was fabulous. I think it’s great the town can keep this tradition.

“I think what we did with Don is what the town council should be all about. He is delighted. The smile says it all.

“There are a lot more activities planned for the weekend.”

Mike Starkie, elected mayor of Copeland, said: “It was good to see people down in such numbers for the proclamation.

“It’s a unique celebration that we will never see again in any of our lifetimes. Credit to everyone who has been involved in pulling the various events together.”

Edwin Dinsdale, deputy mayor of Whitehaven, said: “It’s a pleasure to deputise for Charles Maudling. It’s a real honour to be part of this function. It’s a great start to what will be a great weekend.”

Graham Roberts, town councillor, said: “This is Whitehaven at its best – when the town is out and the weather is good – to celebrate such a wonderful occasion. It’s wonderful seeing people get in the spirit. The town council would like to thank Her Majesty for everything she has done for this nation.”

Hundreds of people also gathered at the Welfare Playground at Kells to enjoy a Platinum Jubilee community festival.

Families enjoyed inflatables, arts and crafts, sports, music and a colour run at the event, which was organised by councillor Emma Williamson, Rosehill Theatre and South Whitehaven Youth Partnership.

Cllr Williamson said: “I’m really pleased with the turnout. We’ve got fantastic weather and a fantastic day.”