A giant beacon forming part of a massive chain across Britain will be lit near Ludlow as part of the worldwide celebrations to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The beacon at Whitcliffe Common will be one of thousands lit around the world in June next year to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s 60 years on the throne.

The Ludlow beacon is expected to be visible for miles and will be accompanied by a fireworks display.

A beacon is also expected to be lit on Hanway Common in nearby Richards Castle as part of the commemorations. A number of other communities across the south of the county are also lining up celebrations and surveys have been sent to homes in Onibury asking villagers if they want to hold a street party.

Alan Poulton MBE, chairman of Ludlow’s diamond jubilee committee, said: “There are beacons spanning the country and I believe we are about number 90.

“It will be a good beacon and visible for miles. We hope the fireworks will also be launched from Whitcliffe as well so the whole of Ludlow can see them.

“We’re 99.9 per cent sure they will go from Whitcliffe and not the castle. We are also putting together a full program of events shortly so everyone can know what is happening.”

Mr Poulton said about £16,000 needed to be raised to fund different events.

He added: “A provisional programme has been drawn up with estimates of cost.

“The fundraising we have been doing for the past nine months will help with this and more are planned in the coming months.

“Voluntary organisations e planning their own events can be entered into the programme of events leaflet.

“It is hoped individual street parties will take place and volunteers will come forward to organise them.

“The committee appreciates the help of Ludlow Town Council and all who have worked to support this community initiative.”

A commemorative mug is being launched tonight to help raise extra cash.

The limited edition mugs will bear the Ludlow town crest and crown emblem.

The launch will be held at Ludlow Methodist Church on Broad Street at 7.30pm. Organisers say it will feature poetry and music.