The ceremonial tree planting was completed today by the Mayor of Bromley at Queens Gardens in Bromley town centre, the traditional host park of moments of national history for the borough.
The Mayor of Bromley planted the English oak tree in the presence of the Pearly King of Bromley Chris Conlan, who was also inaugurated into the role, as well as other invited guests. The Coronation ceremony will be shown live on a big screen in this same park on Saturday 6 May, with residents invited to attend and enjoy a picnic with friends and family while watching the festivities.
Residents have come together in Queens Gardens to experience history on many occasions, with Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II having herself visited the park and enjoyed tea there for her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012. The park itself was even named in honour of Queen Victoria’s Dimond Jubilee of 1897.
Councillor Hannah Gray, the Mayor of Bromley says: “I am delighted to plant this tree in Bromley today in honour of His Majesty’s The King’s Coronation, with this symbolising the start of his reign that we hope will grow to reach magnificent heights! I know that many residents are now eager to celebrate and if you’re holding one of many street parties taking place in Bromley, you may run into me or the Deputy Mayor as we look to visit as many of these as possible in our tour of the borough’s celebrations, just as we did for the Platinum Jubilee. Or you could come along to the Queens Gardens screening tomorrow where I’ll be soaking in the atmosphere while watching history being made on screen.”
Over 170 street parties are taking place across the borough, details of these and the associated road closures are linked below to help with travel around the borough.
Temporary traffic regulation order (Coronation weekend 6-8 May 2023) road closure list
The Queens Gardens Coronation screening will start at 9:30am on Saturday 6 May, alongside a host of family activities from the library service and Clip Theatre. Expect face painting, storytelling, a chance to make a royal crown or create bunting, or even try on regal robes at the Royal Throne photo booth. A selection of toys from the past will also be brought down from 10-11am, plus learn more about the Broom flower with Bromley Civic Society, the flower from which Bromley takes its name that is still known to flower locally.
After the Coronation proceedings have finished, residents might enjoy heading to ‘The King’s Dinner’ puppet show that will be held in Bromley Central Library in the small hall on the 4th floor.
A further screening of the Coronation is also taking place in Orpington, Market Square, which is being delivered by Orpington 1st BID alongside further activities.
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For media enquiries, please contact James George, Public Affairs Officer, on 020 8313 4565 or email james.george@bromley.gov.uk