King's coronation to be shown on big screen in Times Square

From street parties to community events, lots of exciting activities will be taking place across the city to mark the historic occasion.

The coronation will be broadcast for free on a big screen at Times Square on Saturday, May 6 from 9.30am to 4pm.

The ceremony at Westminster Abbey will start at 11am after the royals arrive in procession from Buckingham Palace.

After the service, King Charles will return to the palace where he will be joined on the balcony by other senior members of the royal family.

The following day, residents will be able to watch the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle for free at Times Square from 8pm.

Katy Perry, Take That and Lionel Richie will be among the stars who will perform at the event, alongside community choirs and singers from across the UK.

As part of the coronation celebrations, communities across Newcastle will decorate their streets in colourful bunting as they come together to hold street parties.

Landmarks including the Civic Centre and the Tyne Bridge will be illuminated red, white and blue.

Residents will receive sweet treats as part of Newcastle City Council’s Meals at Home service.

And libraries will be holding coffee mornings and children’s craft sessions, while the coronation will also be broadcast at City and Fenham libraries.

Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, pupils have also been enjoying coronation-themed menus at schools.

Michelle Percy, Director of Place at Newcastle City Council, said: “The King’s coronation promises to be a truly historic event.

“We know there is a huge affection for the royal family and we have had the honour of welcoming King Charles to the city on many occasions throughout the years.

“We are absolutely delighted to be broadcasting the coronation ceremony in Times Square, alongside lots of other exciting events which are being held across the city.

“The bank holiday weekend will be a fantastic opportunity for our communities to come together to celebrate the momentous occasion.”

As communities come together to celebrate the coronation, residents are being reminded to stay alert and help keep each other safe.

If you see something that doesn’t feel right, tell security, staff or the police or report it online at https://act.campaign.gov.uk. In an emergency always call 999.