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The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Weekend

Britain has just finished three days of parties, pageants, parades and concerts all in celebration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. To mark Elizabeth II being on the throne for 60 years, the country was given a four-day weekend with millions joining in with the festivities, despite some typically wet British weather.

Sunday: Boat Pageant and Street Parties

It all started on Sunday with a ‘flotilla' of 1,000 boats making their way through London on the River Thames. The Queen was joined by close family members on a specially made Royal Barge. Surrounding it was one of the biggest gatherings of boats from around the world the Thames has ever seen. More than a million people flocked to the banks of the river to catch a glimpse of the unique site. Although prime spots filled up hours before the procession began, revellers were happy to simply join in with the party atmosphere.

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Diamond Jubilee Events This Weekend

If you're in Britain, chances are that you've heard that the Queen is celebrating 60 years on the throne this weekend. As part of the massive four-day weekend Diamond Jubilee celebrations there are loads of events going on. Here we pick out some of the best for you to get involved in.

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Queen's Jubilee: Big Ben Tower to be Renamed After Elizabeth?

MPs are considering changing the name of the Big Ben tower as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations. This summer, Britain is celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's sixtieth year in power, and it has been suggested that the famous landmark could be renamed Elizabeth Tower.

Though often referred to simply as Big Ben, the tower is technically called St. Stephen's Tower. It is the huge bell within the tower which is actually named Big Ben. Whilst the bell would retain its name, it is the tower itself which would be renamed- an honour only previously bestowed on Queen Victoria. Indeed, in 1860, the west tower of the Parliament building was named the Victoria Tower to commemorate the Queen's long reign.

It is Foreign Office aide Tobias Ellwood who is leading the campaign, and he is said top have significant support throughout all the different political parties. Me Ellwood said:

"I can't think of a greater tribute for Parliament to bestow on Her Majesty than the naming of such a landmark as the Clock Tower. If we get the support I hope we will, I would like to see a formal announcement or a ceremony taking place on June 2."

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