Celebrate borough's 60th at Mayor's picnic

The free family event, which runs from midday until 5pm, is the first big occasion to be hosted by the newly-elected Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Philip Corthorne, and features an afternoon of live music and dance performances alongside a range of fun activities for visitors of all ages.  

Returning to the main stage will be the popular Candy Girls, a vintage style close harmony vocal group, along with bands from Hillingdon Music Service, Bishopshalt School steel pans and Hillingdon Musical Society. 

There will also be shows from AnyBodyCan Dance, Freedom of Dance, Fleurs Performing Arts and more. For younger children, there will be sports activities, face painting, Punch and Judy shows, inflatable fun and arts and crafts.   

Representatives from a number of key council services will also be hosting information stalls on the day, including libraries, children's services, adult learning and children's social care, so drop by and find out about the support available. 

The borough's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, which began in April, mark 60 years since the formation of the borough and local authority.  Among the events taking place this month are themed storytime sessions for younger children in libraries, LEGO building sessions for those aged five to 10, and the council's touring heritage roadshow where residents are invited to share their memories of the borough from past decades. 

Cllr Corthorne said: "We have a strong history of community events and street parties in Hillingdon and I'm thrilled to be hosting the annual Picnic in the Park for residents and visitors to celebrate the borough's Diamond Jubilee together. 

"This is a wonderful way to start my year as mayor and bring together the people, businesses, partner organisations and cultures that make up our lovely borough and showcase lots of our fantastic local talent. 

"I would encourage you to add the date to your diary, gather your family and friends together, pack a blanket or something to sit on and come along and enjoy the day, with entertainment, fun, food and hopefully some sun, in one of our beautiful parks." 

Find out more about the Mayor's Picnic in the Park at  discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/picnic-in-the-park