DETERMINED to rejoice come rain or shine, Swindon celebrated the Queen's golden jubilee right royally.

With street parties, concerts, picnics and special services galore, revellers toasted the occasion in countless ways.

And in spite of mixed weather, community spirits shone throughout the town making every event a blazing success.

The Swindon Jubilee Festival, showcasing a week of artistic talent, proved even bigger and better than expected.

Toby Rathbone, performing arts officer at Swindon Council, declared the event a huge success.

He said: "With a strong turn out at all the attractions, our highest hopes were surpassed. It was a fantastic week made extra special by the jubilee jollity."

Highlighting the carnival parade as the most vibrant display, he said the feast of colour was breathtaking.

"The gospel choir and stand-up comics did a brilliant job of persuading people to join in the creative extravaganza," he added.

Mary Ratcliffe, who dresses up as Queen Victoria, had a host of occasions to attend.

Mary, 77, from Old Town, said: "It's great that locals came out in droves to mark this historic moment and have a brilliant time.

"I've been rushed off my feet but the warm welcomes made it all worthwhile."

Among the more unusual events was a coin collection held in Purton.

Thanks to feelings of jubilee generosity, residents managed to create a mile-long trail with their loose change.

Lynda Warren, chairwoman of the Purton Helping Hand Carnival, said: "There was a brilliant atmosphere of giving. We managed to raise £178, more than double last year's amount."

Carnival spirits were thriving in Highworth as the high street teemed with people wanting to party in style on the bank holiday Monday. Bell ringing, Punch and Judy, juggling and a flower festival formed just some of the entertainment.

Highworth's new Mayor Brian Freeman lavished praised on his predecessor Lynn Vardy for being the solo organiser of the town's jubilee celebrations.

Coun Freeman said: "Lynn did a fantastic job. She really pulled things together and, apart from the Women's Institute, she did it with little help."

The mood of good will was particularly refreshing, given the town's recent problems with vandalism.

"The vandals have tarnished Highworth's reputation. But the wonderful jubilee celebrations showed that we still have lots to be proud of," Coun Freeman added.