Royal fans in East Lothian left to own devices for Jubilee

ROYAL fans are being forced to organise their own parties to mark the Queen’s diamond jubilee – after a council revealed it was not taking part in the celebrations.

Residents in East Lothian are preparing to mark the monarch’s 60-year reign in their own style after the local authority claimed it “could not justify the costs of participation”.

Tim Jackson, from Gullane, approached East Lothian Council to request information on what official celebrations were being planned.

But Mr Jackson was left “surprised” after being told he had to submit a freedom of information request to obtain any kind of reply.

Mr Jackson said: “My queries resulted from not being aware of any Queen’s jubilee celebrations in East Lothian.

“I am also disappointed that, despite being a coastal council, East Lothian is not participating in the Diamond Jubilee Pageant on the Thames.”

An East Lothian Council spokeswoman defended the authority’s position, revealing that it had only received one application for a street closure during the celebrations.

She said: “East Lothian Council has not received any funding from the Scottish or UK Government to mark the Queen’s jubilee.

“The council will assist community groups, where practicable, who are considering organising events – through advising on road closures or licensing for parties.

“To date, only one application has so far been made for a street closure – Campbell Road in Longniddry.”