LIVE music, a community picnic and a tea party fit for royals are just a few events happening in Malmesbury over the coronation weekend.

The celebrations will commence on Saturday, May 6 in Malmesbury Abbey where the coronation service will be projected on a large screen.

Vicar of Malmesbury the Rev Oliver Ross, supported by Curate Sarah Heywood, will also be leading a service of Thanksgiving at the Abbey the following day starting 11am until 12.30pm.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Platinum jubilee decorations outside Malmesbury AbbeyPlatinum jubilee decorations outside Malmesbury Abbey (Image: Richard Harris)

After the service, a free community picnic will take place at Cloister Gardens behind the Abbey between 12.30pm and 4pm.

Everyone is welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the live music from The Malmesbury Concert Band and dancing from Malmesbury Morris.

There will be prizes for the best dressed royals, so children are encouraged to come in their most impressive regal attire.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Locals enjoying the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon Lighting in Malmesbury – June 2 2022Locals enjoying the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon Lighting in Malmesbury – June 2 2022 (Image: Richard Harris)

A bouncy castle and crafts stalls will be present for children to enjoy.

Mayor of Malmesbury Kim Power said: "The Coronation of King Charles III is a hugely significant event in our history and Malmesbury Town Council are marking the occasion with a community event, in line with the King's wish for a Big Lunch.

"So, following a service in Malmesbury Abbey on Sunday, May 7 from 11am to 12.30pm, we will be celebrating with a free fun community picnic available to all, including entertainment and a fun fancy dress parade for children.y

"We hope that people will make memories, that they will remember for years to come."

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Malmesbury Concert Band's display boardMalmesbury Concert Band's display board (Image: Richard Harris)

However, if you can't wait until the coronation weekend to celebrate, a Churchill retirement home is hosting a tea party next week.

Everyone is invited to the William Lodge complex in Gloucester Road for afternoon tea on Wednesday, April 26 from 2pm to 4pm.

Visitors will be treated to music, fizz and refreshments while special coronation goody bags will be handed

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Churchill’s friendly sales team Louise Gossage, Alex Roberts and Felicity Roberts Churchill’s friendly sales team Louise Gossage, Alex Roberts and Felicity Roberts (Image: Churchill Retirement Living)

Churchill’s senior marketing manager Caroline Haswell said: “We’re excited to welcome everyone to our special Coronation Tea Party to look forward to this historic national event that few of us are old enough to have experienced before.

"Visitors can get their hands on one of our special Coronation goody bags while stocks last, and we’ll have a host of treats and entertainment on offer, as well as the chance to chat to our owners and meet our friendly team.