‘20,000’ set to see Queenat Stormont

More than 20,000 people could attend the Diamond Jubilee celebration for the Queen at Stormont in Belfast – more than double the number previously forecast.

The estimate comes after Sinn Fein claimed it was not told of the plans for the event, which are believed to have disrupted delicate talks on a potentially historic meeting between the Queen and deputy first minister Martin McGuinness.

There was speculation the meeting could take place at Stormont, where Sinn Fein leads the power-sharing government alongside the Democratic Unionists. But it is understood that it would be more difficult for republicans to agree to the encounter if it took place against the backdrop of such a major celebration of the Queen’s reign.

The Northern Ireland Office last week announced it was making 10,000 tickets available to the public. But it has now been confirmed that the list of invited guests is itself 10,000 strong.

Sinn Fein has predicted that the event could eventually draw as many as 25,000 royal supporters. Northern Ireland Secretary Owen Paterson said all political parties were aware of the “broad outline” of plans, but Sinn Fein has denied it was told of the large-scale celebration.