COMMUNITY leaders have called on people to keep up the spirit shown during the Queen’s visit and get involved in Diamond Jubilee events.

Hyndburn Council leader Miles Parkinson said he hoped residents, who showed up to cheer on the Queen in huge numbers, will continue to show patriotism for upcoming events.

And former Burnley Mayor, Coun David Heginbotham, who also met the Queen, said: “East Lancashire will defin-itely benefit from the visit.

“People have been focused on the area and will be looking to see what’s going on around here.

“They will be thinking that there is something special happening in Burnley and Accrington and they will want to be a part of it.”

Coun Parkinson said the council had planned an entire ‘Summer of Celebration’ to mark events such as the Jubilee weekend in June, and the Olympic torch coming to Lancashire.

The council is also hoping for record applications for street parties.

Hyndburn earned itself the nickname of ‘most patriotic borough’ in East Lancashire after scores celebrated the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton with street parties in their neighbourhoods.

Coun Parkinson said: “There was such a spirit of enthusiasm in welcoming the Queen to Accrington, and we would like to see that continue.

“We have barely started our Summer of Celebration and we want to see everyone getting involved.

“There will be details on our website and numerous events on the townships’ noticeboards in the coming weeks.”

For more information on future events visit ww.hyndburnbc.gov.uk