THERE was a sea of red, white and blue as residents came together to celebrate The Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Hexham's Gateway into the Community, which supports people who have a learning disability and enables them to access social, leisure and learning opportunities in the community, invited those who they work with and their carers to celebrate the party at Tynedale Cricket Club.

The room was decorated with bunting and guests were dressed in patriachy clothing, including some dressed a soldiers.

The party was enjoyed by many including Hexham resident Keith Cox who recognised the hardwork of the Gateway team.

He said: "The party was really good and it was really lovely to be with everyone to celebrate the special occassion as it is very important.

"It was great to see the mayor who took time out of his day to see us all and to talk to us.

"I would just like to say that the carers and staff are brilliant here - as you can see by their hard work that they put in for the event."

The event was also attended by 79-year-old Ray Duncan, who brought 37 memorabilia books about the Queen including past articles and shared his own experiences of meeting the Queen and Prince Philip.

Chief executive of Gateway Julia Ferguson said: "We were over the moon when Ray brought everything he had about the Queen. 

"When we were planning the party we were worried that we did not have enough decorations.

"Then a day later Ray knocked on our door with the mass of memorabilia he had. 

"We knew it would be perfect for the party and all the attendees of the party have enjoyed looking at them."

The Mayor of Hexham Derek Kennedy said: "It was wonderful to celebrate the Jubilee especially with an organisation so close to my heart.

"I have always taken an interest in Gateway and it is just great to see them all together having an indoor street party with cake, sandwiches and keeping thier spirits up despite the weather outside."