TEN thousand kettles are at the ready, 100,000 teacups are lined up to be filled, the streets are closed and the people of York and North Yorkshire are ready for four days of Jubilee celebrations.

In North Yorkshire, the people of Minskip, near Boroughbridge, are so determined to have fun they have decorated the entire village with bunting.

In York today, the Jubilee pub in Jubilee Terrace, which was opened in honour of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, will show the rest of York how to party. Landlady Kelly Bailey said: “It’s all very exciting. Lots of people have come to help out. I’m looking forward to it.

“We are just hoping the community will come round and have a good day, just a fun family day.” As they raise a teacup and a glass or two to Her Majesty, the Queen will be watching the Derby on Epsom Down.

Tomorrow churches across North and East Yorkshire will hold thanksgiving services. Many have planned open-air services followed by open-air picnics, though rain is forecast.

Meanwhile 1,000 boats, barges and yachts will process through an avenue of sailing ships, accompanied by a floating belfry, geysers and other watery marvels as the Queen takes centre stage in a unique River Thames Pageant.

The York area has several processions organised by local communities, starting with two today in Strensall and Riccall and three tomorrow in Stamford Bridge, Tadcaster and Kirkbymoorside. Skelton takes up the baton on Monday with its parade and Thirsk saves its until Tuesday.

Monday will also be busy with galas and street parties, but the real excitement will be at nightfall.

The entire UK will blaze with lights as the Diamond Jubilee National Beacon Chain of more than 4,000 is lit by communities, organisations, churches and local authorities and finally by the Queen lighting the National Beacon after the Diamond Jubilee Concert at Buckingham Palace.

The celebrations will continue on Tuesday, and in London they will culminate in a grand procession and thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral.