Beacon is lit in Burgess Hill to celebrate the Queen's birthday milestone

The event, organised by Burgess Hill Town Council, attracted a large crowd who enjoyed performances by Burgess Hill school choirs and Burgess Hill Marching Youth.

The Mayor read out a message from the Prince of Wales before lighting the beacon.

The Queen, accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall earlier lit the principal beacon which was followed by the lighting of a number of other beacons throughout the UK - including Burgess Hill.

Burgess Hill Town Council is also inviting Burgess Hill residents to write their birthday wishes to the Queen in a special leather bound book. The book will be available at the town council offices in Church Walk until Friday June 3 to coincide with the Queen’s official birthday. The book will then be forwarded to The Queen so she can read everyone’s messages.

Mayor Anne Jones said: “It was lovely to see the community come together waving their Union flags to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday and join in the lighting of the beacon at St John’s Park.

“The performances by Burgess Hill school choirs and Burgess Hill Marching Youth were delightful and it was lovely to see so many children taking part in the event.

“I would like to thank Burgess Hill Bonfire Society, Mike Wood, BEM, music director at Oakmeeds Community College, the schools and Marching Youth for taking part.”