The coronation of King Charles was celebrated in the London Borough of Bexley with a variety of events and activities, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm and creative spirit. For some people this will have been a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’, as a result Bexley came together in more ways than one to celebrate the historic event.
Street Parties: The borough witnessed a remarkable number of street parties, totaling 90+. These gatherings were a key feature of the celebrations, where residents came together to mark the occasion. Bexley’s Highways, Traffic, and Infrastructure team supported these events by processing over 100+ applications from residents to host street parties, waiving fees for Temporary Traffic Orders, and providing necessary road signs and cones free of charge.
Charity and Volunteer Work: Many of these street parties also included efforts to raise money for various charities, including the London Air Ambulance. Volunteer work was a significant part of the celebrations, reflecting the community’s commitment to charitable causes.
Special Events in Local Areas:
The boroughs historic Lesnes Abbey Woods, approximately 1,500 visitors enjoyed food, live music, children’s activities, and various stalls in the Monk’s Garden. The event also featured performances by the Belvedere Concert Band and a unique Coronation Scavenger Hunt for children.
In Foots Cray Meadows, the local volunteer group ‘The Friends of Foots Cray Meadows’ held an information event as part of the ‘The Big Help Out’ Coronation weekend. This included sharing details about their volunteer activities like river restoration, tree planting, and litter picking.
Commemorative Tree Planting: A special event was held at Hall Place, where the Leader of the Council, Baroness O’Neill of Bexley, the Mayor of Bexley Cllr. Nick O’Hare and other dignitaries planted an English Yew tree in commemoration of King Charles III’s coronation. This tree is situated close to the Queen’s Beast Topiary, which was planted in 1953 to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The new tree is expected to grow and become a significant part of the landscape, much like the existing topiary.
The Mayor’s Participation: The Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Nick O’Hare, along with the Deputy Mayor Cllr. Rags Sandhu and the Borough’s Deputy Lieutenant, visited many of these street parties. Their participation highlighted the official support and recognition for the local celebrations.
These celebrations in Bexley not only marked a historic occasion but also brought the community together, combining festivity with charity and environmental consciousness.
Learn more about the community events within the London Borough of Bexley.