Businesses and artists are being encouraged to help decorate Coalville to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) is encouraging local businesses and artists to take part.

And there are two initiatives being introduced to help mark Her Majesty's 70th anniversary.

Best Dressed Window Competition

Businesses in Coalville are being encouraged to decorate their shop fronts with a red, white and blue theme - the colours of the Union Flag.

To enter, shops, pubs and venues will need to confirm they are taking part by Monday. May 16. 

They should send in their business name, location, and contact details to [email protected]

Windows should be ready for Monday 30 May when the public vote will open.

Shoppers and visitors voting for their favourites will automatically be entered into a prize draw HERE.

Winners will be announced week commencing June 13.

Art Around Town

The council is looking for 70 pieces of art to be created to celebrate each year the Queen has been on the throne.

Local residents, budding and experienced artists are being invited to create royal themed art boards.

These will be displayed in Coalville shop windows between Monday, May 30 and Sunday, June 12.

People of all ages can take part and are being encouraged to be as creative as they like by using paint, collage or 3D techniques.

Adults will be provided with a plain A3 canvas whilst children will be given a pre-drawn A3 template.

Delivery details will also be provided.

To take part in the project, which is being funded by Aggregate Industries, participants will need to confirm whether they need an adult or child's board.

This is along with their address and contact details to [email protected]

All boards must be completed and returned by Thursday 19 May.

Coalville town centre, Coalville Park, Stenson House and Memorial Square will also be decorated by the council to mark the celebrations.

Councillor Tony Gillard, Portfolio Holder for Business at NWLDC, said: "To mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, we're asking businesses and artists to help us decorate Coalville town centre with a royal theme.

"The aim is to make our main towns as vibrant and welcoming as possible to honour the Queen's service and make it an event to remember.

"We look forward to seeing all the talented artwork and decorated windows and hope to see lots of customers and visitors supporting their favourites."