Accession Day Garden Parties

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT IS ISSUED BY THE PRESS SECRETARY TO THE QUEEN

People born on The Queen's Accession Day, 6th February 1952, are to be invited to Golden Jubilee Garden Parties in London and Edinburgh this year, hosted by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.

If you were born on Accession Day, then invitations to these historic events may be applied for in writing via the Lord-Lieutenants' offices only. The address of these offices can be found from local council offices and on the Royal web site - not from Buckingham Palace or via the media.

Applications from those born in England, Wales and Northern Ireland for the Buckingham Palace Garden Party to be held on 9th July 2002 must be received by 15th February 2002.

Applications from those born in Northern Ireland should go through the Golden Jubilee Office, Northern Ireland Office, Block B, Castle Buildings, Stormont, Belfast BT4 3SG.

Applicants born in Commonwealth countries who live in the United Kingdom should apply via the Lord-Lieutenants' offices as above.

All applications must be accompanied by a copy of the individual's birth certificate so that eligibility can be verified.

A total of 3,500 invitations to these two Garden Parties will be available for people born on Accession Day and will be distributed on a pro rata basis between the offices of the Lord-Lieutenants.