A TOWN is celebrating, after it was announced this afternoon (Wednesday) that the Queen will be visiting as part of her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The news was announced via the official website of the monarchy that Her Royal Highness will visit Stevenage either on June 13 or 14.

Cllr Sharon Taylor, leader of Stevenage Borough Council, said that she was delighted the town had been chosen for a royal visit.

“It’s fantastic news, I’m delighted,” she told The Comet. “The town has grown up during the Queen’s reign, so I think it’s very appropriate she’s visiting the country’s first New Town.

“We will be delighted to welcome her to Stevenage. I’m sure it will be a very exciting time.”

Stevenage joins Hatfield as the only towns in the county to get a royal visit. Over those two days, the Queen will also visit three other towns in the east of the country.

MP Stephen McPartland said: “This is absolutely fantastic news that the Queen will visit Stevenage. I very much look forward to welcoming Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh to the town.

“This is a very proud day for Stevenage and surrounding areas.”

The visit coincides with another major event for the town this summer. In July, the town will also get a visit from the Olympic torch.

Town centre manager Tracey Parry said: “I think that it’s a really important year for the whole country, so to have a visit from the Queen for her Diamond Jubilee is fantastic. I’m sure the people of Stevenage will be delighted to welcome her. She’s a much loved monarch.

“It’s a big year, we’ve got the Jubilee, the Olympics, we’re welcoming the torch and we now have a visit from the Queen. It’s a double coup.”

Over the course of the next few months, the Queen will visit more than 50 towns, cities and boroughs.

On the website, a statement says: “Her Majesty The Queen, accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh, will mark the year of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a series of regional visits throughout the United Kingdom.

“Touring the country by road, rail, air and sea, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh will travel widely across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“These visits will give Her Majesty the opportunity to express her thanks to people throughout the country for their continued support and loyalty.”