Beacon lit in Exmouth to mark Queen's Platinum Jubilee

A beacon at Orcombe Point, Exmouth was lit this evening (Thursday 2 June) to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

The Platinum Jubilee marks 70 years since the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne in 1952. Today was the first day of a four-day long weekend lasting until Sunday 5 June.

Exmouth's beacon is among 47 being lit in Devon, and roughly 3,000 across the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, UK Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth.

Earlier today Town Crier Roger Bourgein announced a specially written proclamation heralding the lighting of the beacon.

The lit beacon at Orcombe Point, Exmouth (Nub News, Will Goddard)

Just before the beacon was lit at around 9.45pm, a local piper played a tune, Diu Regnare, which was written for the occasion.

Mayor of Exmouth Cllr Steve Gazzard then lit the beacon near the geoneedle at Orcombe Point, and the gathered crowd sang the national anthem.

The Exmouth Festival also began today. With stalls, a fairground, and live performances on the Imperial Recreation Ground, it's a must-see over the long weekend.

SEE ALSO: Your guide to the Platinum Jubilee in Exmouth