Hertfordshire County Council is encouraging Hitchin residents to apply now for street parties to celebrate the King's coronation.

Recognising the social and community benefits of celebrating this historic event, the county council has decided to waive the usual road closure fees in hope of encouraging as many people as possible to take up the opportunity to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Cllr Richard Roberts, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council said: "For most of us the coronation of King Charles III will be the first coronation that has taken place in our lifetimes, and I know people across Hertfordshire will want to join in with the celebration of this historic event.

"Street parties are a fantastic way of bringing communities together and we want to make it as easy as possible for residents to organise their own local events, which is why we've decided to waive the fees for street parties to celebrate the coronation.

"We want to make sure that our residents can have a fun and memorable weekend, and I'd encourage everyone to speak to their neighbours about organising street parties and apply for a street party road closure as soon as possible."

Hertfordshire has a strong reputation for community held Royal celebrations, with the county hosting more than 560 street parties to celebrate the Queen's platinum jubilee last summer, and claiming the title of street party capital of Britain for previous royal weddings and jubilees.

Information on how to apply for a street party road closure can be found on the county council's website at www.hertsdirect.org/streetparties

Anyone wanting to close a road for a street party will need to apply to the county council at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/streetparties  by 26 March 2023.