Garden Party invitations for those born on Accession Day

THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT IS ISSUED BY THE PRESS SECRETARY TO THE QUEEN

People born on The Queen's Accession day, 6th February 1952 are to be invited to Golden Jubilee Garden Parties in London and Edinburgh next year, hosted by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.

If you were born on Accession Day then invitations to these historic events may be applied for in writing via the Lord-Lieutenants' offices only. The address of these offices can be found from local council offices - not Buckingham Palace or via the media.

Applications from those in Scotland for the Palace of Holyroodhouse Garden Party to be held on 25th May 2002 must be received by 30th November 2001.

Applications from those in England, Wales and Northern Ireland for the Buckingham Palace Garden Party to be held on 9th July 2002 must be received by 31st January 2002.

All applications must be accompanied by a copy of the individual's birth certificate so that eligibility can be verified.

A total of 3,500 invitations to these two Garden Parties will be available for people born on Accession Day and will be distributed on a pro rata basis between the offices of the Lord-Lieutenants.