Quarter mile of tables - 5,000 in Reading

TV camera’s recorded the events as 5,000 people enjoyed a huge Big Jubilee Lunch in South Reading. The local Churches Together have become known for their family fun days and service to the community. As a result the council asked them to take a lead with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Visitors willingly took 2,000 Diamond Jubilee New Testaments from among sandwiches and quizzes from the tables stretching a quarter of a mile. A council representative who saw the army of church volunteers setting up said she had a lump in her throat, she was so moved by the sense of purpose and fun.

Local vicar, Vernon Orr, said: “It felt like the whole community turned up and a well-organised army of volunteers meant clockwork organisation in getting the free food distributed. We were thrilled it was opened by well-known local John Madejski, owner of the Reading Football Club. Food was donated and many in the community helped out. We love people, we like celebrating and we like parties!”