ABINGDON could belatedly get a bandstand in the park as organisers look to splash £55,000 on marking the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Abingdon Town Council has put aside £40,000 for a four-day celebration in June which will include a party in Ock Street and another bun-throwing.

It is also proposing to spend about £15,000 on a bandstand to mark the Queen’s 60 years on the throne – but it is unlikely to be built this year.

Council leader Sandy Lovatt said the council had saved cash over two years but was looking for donations and sponsors to offset the cost.

Steve Rich, musical director of Abingdon Town Band, said Abbey Gardens would be a great spot for it.

He said: “This is something we have been looking at for about 20 or 30 years.

“It would be something for all kinds of bands and societies to use and it would be a fantastic addition to the town.”