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Slough’s celebrations were typical of many towns. A TV set was purchased so that the ‘old folk’ could see
the coronation in one of the local church halls; 7000 coronation mugs were purchased to present to local
schoolchildren, and a large portrait of the Queen was displayed on the central balcony of the Town Hall,
illuminated by floodlights and surrounded by flowers. A Punch and Judy show was provided on coronation
day at the Salt Hill Playing Fields, which was followed by the local Territorial Army unit parading around the
town. Numerous street parties were held.
Coronation day, 2 June 1953, was a cold day with a strong north wind. At night there was heavy rain.
But it didn’t stop the celebrations carrying on till late at night. In Reading there were fireworks and a giant
bonfire at Hills Meadows.
(right) Newbury Borough Coronation Programme. (N/D52/1/1)
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