COMMUNITIES across the UK are getting ready to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee this year.

In honour of Her Majesty's 70 years on the throne, a special extended bank holiday weekend from Thursday, June 2 to Sunday, June 5 is taking place.

This week, the full programme of celebrations which will take place in Hexham have been revealed.

Events include The Big Jubilee Lunches and beacon lighting.

Rachel Ladd, marketing and communications officer at Hexham Community Partnership, said: "We've got a really full programme of events to celebrate the Jubilee.

"There's lots of exciting activities and events and we're all looking forward to celebrating in Hexham."

Hexham Celebrates - Music for the Queen's Jubilee

When? Friday, May 27. Doors 6pm.

Where? Hexham Abbey

With Sir Brendan Foster CBE. Organised by Hexham Rotary Club. Tickets cost £15.

Monarch Montage - Help create the Queen's portrait

When? Saturday, May 28 at 10am and 2pm, and Tuesday, May 31 at 3pm.

Where? Hexham Library

Free.

VIP Luncheon - in aid of Tynedale Hospice at Home

When? Tuesday, May 31. 12 noon.

Where? The Beaumont

£25. With guest speaker Major Charles Enderby.

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacons

When? Thursday, June 2 at 8pm.

Where? Marketplace

Ceilidh under the Shambles. Free.

Northumberland County Show

When? Friday, June 3. 9am until 6pm.

Where? Bywell Hall.

Tickets £5-£15.

Hexham Jubilee Regatta

When? Saturday, June 4. 8.30am until 6.30pm.

Where? Tyne Green Country Park.

Elizabeth: A Portrait in Parts - a documentary

When? Saturday, June 4. 4pm.

Where? Forum Cinema

£5-£8. 

Kakatsitsi Master Drummers from Ghana

When? Saturday, June 4

Where? Queen's Hall

The Big Jubilee Lunches

When? Sunday, June 5 at 12 noon

Where? Fore Street Feast of Nations, Priestlands Picnic, Middle School Packed Lunch.

Party games and entertainment. Free, bring your own food.

The Queen in the North East - archive films

When? Sunday, June 5 at 4pm

Where? Forum Cinema

Hexham Middle School Jubilee Fete

When? Saturday, June 11 between 1pm and 3pm

Jubilee-themed stalls and competitions. Organised by the PTA.

For more details, go to the Visit Hexham website.