Neelam Aggarwal attended a special 'Big Jubilee' Lunch event at Buckingham Palace Garden.
In just two months’ time, neighbours around the UK will be coming together to mark The Queen’s 70-year reign with Big Lunch street parties and community celebrations.
To kick off the festivities, broadcaster, actress and comedian, Mel Giedroyc was joined in the gardens of the iconic Royal Residence by Neelam and nine other Big Lunch organisers from all four corners of the UK, to get their tips and inspiration on how to get the platinum party started.
Neelam from Northampton shared her ideas with Mel and together they discussed how the annual event has helped make meaningful connections and bring communities together through simply sharing friendship, food and fun.
Mel Giedroyc said: "I’m thrilled by all the fantastic top tips I’ve heard today. It’s been a joy to share this special moment with these inspiring people here in the Buckingham Palace Gardens.
"The Big Jubilee Lunch is something that everyone can be part of, it’s about having fun and making connections – and I think we are all ready for a good old knees up! Anyone, anywhere can be part of The Big Jubilee Lunch, whether that’s a cuppa on your doorstep, a BBQ in your back yard or a full-blown street party – it’s easy to take part.
"So why not give it a go? Start planning a Big Jubilee Lunch to have some fun with your community on 2-5 June and mark this mega moment in our country’s history.”
Neelam added: “It has been absolutely amazing to be part of such a wonderful day. I’ve met so many incredible people planning lots of different things for the platinum jubilee, all over the country. It is wonderful to be a part of it. I'm so grateful to be here.”
Neelam is Chair of the Indian Hindu Welfare Organisation, which held an Indian-style Big Lunch in 2012, which is now an annual fixture.
A lifelong volunteer, Neelam and her team won the Queen's Voluntary Award in 2021 for their spectacular Diwali events and their community support during the pandemic. Neelam’s Big Lunch takes place in Northampton on 5 June.
The Big Jubilee Lunch an official part of her platinum celebrations from 2-5 June this year, which will also see processions, pageants, faith services and concerts in honour of The Queen’s 70 years of service.
Peter Stewart, Executive Director of the The Big Lunch initiative, said: “The Big Lunch has been bringing neighbours and communities together on the first weekend in June for over a decade and what an extra special year 2022 is going to be!
"We know that good things happen when people come together and so we want to invite everyone everywhere to take part – that’s what makes The Big Jubilee Lunch BIG! With only two months to go until a once in a lifetime event, now is the time to gather your neighbours, rally your road, and get ready to celebrate this historic moment together."
For more information and to get your free Big Jubilee Lunch planning pack click here
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