A HOST of events are taking place this weekend to celebrate The Queen’s official 90th birthday.

Various churches across the borough will mark the occasion.

St Mary’s Church, in Old Basing, will hold a celebratory service at 10am on Sunday, followed by a street party from 12 noon until 5pm, with entertainment including Basing Singers, the Royal British Legion band, games, face painting, a barbecue and beer and Pimms tents.

The village will extend the royal celebrations until the last weekend in June when a flower, arts and garden festival will be held with the theme of Her Majesty’s 90 Glorious Years.

Held in the church, the display will reflect the story of Queen Elizabeth’s life.

St Mary’s Church, in Eastrop, is also holding a street party in the church grounds on Saturday.

The afternoon will include live music, children’s activities, an historical display and afternoon tea.

At Christ Church, in Chineham, the local Scout troop will host a barbecue to celebrate the occasion after the Sunday service, and there will also be a fancy hat competition and a quiz about The Queen.

In Oakley with Wootton Parish, copies of The Servant Queen book will be given out at street parties, picnics and other gatherings.

The parish is also holding a children’s art competition, challenging youngsters to create a picture of an aspect of The Queen’s life.

St Mary’s Church, in Tadley North, has two events planned, both being run jointly with Tadley Common Methodist Church.

On Friday, a picnic will be held at St Mary’s Church from 3.30pm to 5pm, with food and games, and on Sunday there will be a celebration tea from 4pm at Tadley Common Church, followed by a special evening service at 5.30pm.

Meanwhile nursing home Gracewell of Basingstoke, in Grove Road, is holding a special British-themed party on Saturday.

Guests will be treated to a barbecue and live music from local performer Kate Kelly, between 10.30am and 4pm.

The Bel and the Dragon, in Kingsclere, is also holding a celebration for The Queen in aid of Help for Heroes on Sunday from midday, with live music throughout the day.