'ANNIVERSARIES and Celebrations' has been chosen as the theme of this year's Kendal torchlight procession.

The community event, which is in its 33rd year, is gearing up to party with the best of them in a year which will also see The Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations take place across the region.

Chairman of the Torchlight Procession, Rob Clancy, said: "Each year we choose a theme that has broad appeal and this year there are many high profile anniversaries taking place both nationally and closer to home.

Shakespeare, George Romney and local organisations such as The Westmorland Step and Garland Dancers all have anniversaries this year."

The procession will see the likes of Beatrix Potter character Peter Rabbit, who is celebrating his 100th anniversary, parading the streets along with dozens of floats, bands and performers.

Mr Clancy added that celebration had also been chosen as a way of marking the end of foot-and-mouth and putting the events of September 11, which occurred in the torchlight week last year, in the past.

"So far things have been very hectic but the torchlight is shaping up well.

We have had lots of inquiries from people who are new to the event and there are lots of special things being planned behind the scenes.

The reason this event has lasted so long is its popular appeal.

It is an event for the people, by the people."