LADY Susan Haughey CBE, Lord Lieutenant for Lanarkshire, has shared a heartfelt statement ahead of the Queen's upcoming Platinum Jubilee this week.

Speaking of what the occasion means for the community, she said: "Never before has a British monarch celebrated a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne.

"The extended bank holiday from Thursday, June 2 to Sunday 5 offers a wonderful opportunity for local communities and people in Lanarkshire to come together to celebrate this truly historic occasion."

A number of special events have been planned across Lanarkshire to make the most of the jubilee weekend including a performance from talented local musicians who will take to the stage to honour a long-standing tradition.

Lady Haughey said: "A Lanarkshire Beacon will be lit on Thursday, June 2 at Strathclyde Country Park where the North Lanarkshire Schools Pipe Band will play the Official Diu Regnare and the South Lanarkshire School Choir will sing A Song for the Commonwealth.

"This follows a long tradition of lighting beacons to celebrate jubilees and it is expected that there will be more than 1500 burning throughout the nation and UK overseas territories.

"It is also fantastic to see organisations from so many towns and villages arranging tea parties, barbeques, fun days and garden parties to celebrate Her Majesty‘s historic Platinum Jubilee."

In a final word, Lady Haughey has spoken of her admiration for the Queen's long reign and wishes her a joyous weekend of celebrations.

She said: "Over the last 70 years, there have been massive changes in virtually all aspects of society.

"Throughout this time Her Majesty the Queen has been a constant inspiration with her remarkable sense of duty and exceptional devotion to a life of service.

"The Platinum Jubilee is not only an opportunity to celebrate her reign but also to give heartfelt thanks for everything she has achieved serving the nation and its people.

"On behalf of the people of Lanarkshire, I warmly congratulate the Queen on her Platinum Jubilee and hope she enjoys the tremendous programme of celebrations which will take place over the weekend and has a continued healthy and happy reign."