READING’S Mayor Cllr Rachel Eden was one of thousands to mark the Platinum Jubilee by lighting the beacon on Thursday, June 2.
Nearly 200 people gathered to watch as Cllr Eden ignited one of the 3,500 beacons which were lit across the globe as night fell.
As well as those attending, a group of around 30 formed behind the courtyard to watch the ceremony as it took place in the ruins of the chapter house.
The event was also live-streamed on Reading Borough Council’s Facebook page.
After a short address by the mayor and the deputy lieutenant, Felicity Rutland, guests were treated to a performance of Song for the Commonwealth by the Reading Male Voice Choir.
They where followed by Pipe Major Alan Vaugh, who played Diu Regnare on the bagpipes, and Cadet Freddie Shaw from the Berkshire Cadet Unit, who marked the ceremony with a bugle call.
At 9.45pm, Cllr Eden was given a torch and proceeded to light the beacon, becoming one of more than 3,000 to do so around the world.
Cllr Eden said: “I was a little nervous, to be honest, but it was such a moving moment.
“And to be in such a beautiful part of Reading, surrounded by people, I think it’s a very special weekend.”
Shortly after, attendees were invited to the courtyard for a drinks reception.
She continued: “We’re celebrating, but it felt quite reflective,
“It’s wonderful to think that as we were lighting the beacon, 3,000 other places are doing exactly the same thing.
“We’re all distinctive, and we have our own traditions, but we all came together to mark that one moment.
“I think that was really special.”
