Share your memories in Cheltenham’s Diamond Jubilee book

The book is being made to commemorate the event. Cheltenham Borough Council is working with the community to produce a large archival quality book of photographs, comments, posters, artworks and poems to keep an enduring record of the occasion for future generations.

There has already been enthusiastic interest in the project. A local printer, bookbinder, author and photographer are on board to help with the production. And a small team of volunteers will be visiting events to photograph and interview organisers and party-goers.

Hannah Wright, strategy and engagement assistant for neighbourhoods at Cheltenham Borough Council, said: “The jubilee effect has been very noticeable; one gentleman told me that he had lived in his house for 14 years, but that it is only now, through the jubilee party planning, that he has got to know his neighbours. It has brought together many communities, cultures and generations. I believe that it will leave a lasting legacy. We would like to celebrate that, and encapsulate the atmosphere and community spirit.

“We considered online and digital media, but not everybody has access to this. A book is physical and accessible and gains charm as it ages. There will be plenty of opportunity to go down the electronic route or to look at the commercial possibilities of smaller format editions.

“The all-important thing is that the material is there, preserved for future generations in hard bindings. It’s nice to think that in 100 years time people will be looking through the book and have a complete account of how we celebrated.”

Cllr Peter Jeffries, cabinet member for housing and safety, said: “This jubilee book is such a great idea, not only for those enjoying the celebrations in 2012 but as a keepsake for generations to come. It’s a good way to get the whole community involved and will also benefit a lot of people.”

If you would like your party, big or small, to feature in the book, and would be willing to send in your photographs (with explanatory captions, please) or to be involved in this unique project in any way, please contact Hannah on 01242 775156, or email hannah.wright@cheltenham.gov.uk  before the event.

For press enquiries contact: Nicola Collins, communications team leader, telephone 01242 775050 or email nicola.collins@cheltenham.gov.uk

Note to editors
This June, Britain will celebrate only the second Royal Diamond Jubilee in British history. The only other Monarch to reign for over 60 years was Queen Victoria, who’s Diamond Jubilee was the subject of massive celebrations in 1897.

The council would be interested to find out if there is a sponsor in Cheltenham that would support getting a smaller version of the book printed, which could be sold to local residents wishing to remember the celebrations.