RESIDENTS across South Cumbria have joined in with the Queen's 90th birthday celebrations, with one of the biggest events being the lighting of a beacon on Haverigg beach.

Union flags are flying on public buildings and bunting has been put in schools, shops and homes across the area, as residents pay tribute to Britain's longest serving monarch.

It is a special day for Elsie Robson, a resident at Bevan House Care Home in Stackwood Avenue, Barrow, as she shares the same date of birth as the Queen, April 21 1926, and the same initials, ER.

Staff threw Mrs Robson her own party, with afternoon tea, singing and games.

Mrs Robson's daughter, Brenda MacLellan, said: "Over the years she's had different events to mark the occasion to coincide with their 60th, 70th and 80th birthdays.

"She's older by a only a few minutes from all accounts.

"It's a lovely tale to share."

Brisbane Park Infant School in Blake Street, Barrow, joined the fun as children dressed up in royal attire.

Cheryl Hagan, arts, PSHE and religious education co-ordinator at Brisbane Park, said: "Part of the curriculum is about British values so we thought we would have a celebration.

"They've been busy making crowns, flags, paper chains and place mats. Some of the Year Ones did some dancing."

The Reception class have created a birthday card for the Queen and will send it to Buckingham Palace.

Old Vicarage Nursery in Hartington Street, Barrow, also held a special royal event, with party food and a cardboard cut-out of the Queen making an appearance.

Tonight, beacons were lit across the country, starting at 7pm at Windsor Castle.

Haverigg was one of locations joining in the chain of bonfires and a party to celebrate was held on the beach, with scores of families turning out for the occasion.

Denise Burness, mayor of Millom, said: "It's a national celebration so it's an opportunity for the community to get together, old and new, with a particular focus."

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