HUNDREDS of well-wishers are expected to attend a Service of Thanksgiving at Worcester Cathedral to celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday.

A full peal of bells will ring out at the cathedral on the Queen's official birthday - Saturday, June 11, and on Sunday, June 12 the celebratory service will take place.

The event begins at 4pm and will see local dignitaries, including the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Colonel Patrick Holcroft and new city mayor Councillor Paul Denham, attend to enjoy music from a choir of 150 school children alongside the cathedral choir, accompanied by members of Worcestershire Youth Music.

Reverend Canon Michael Brierley, said: "Absolutely everybody is welcome. It is the service for the city and the county and we will be very glad to see anybody who wants to come along.

"The Queen has given us a great example of faithfulness. Not only had she provided much stability in her role as Head of State and head of the Church of England but also she has been full of faith.

"I think it has been noticeable in her speeches at Christmas, quietly underpinning her service to the nation is her faith and that is a wonderful example to everybody else."

Alongside the thanksgiving celebrations, the Civic Service to mark the start of Councillor Denham's tenancy as mayor will be held.

Preaching at the service will be the Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge.

For more information visit worcestercathedral.co.uk