THE Queen has sat on her throne as the UK's longest-serving monarch, but as plans are laid in Ledbury to mark her official 90th birthday, time is ticking for the opportunity to sit on the old benches by the Market House.

The three benches may all be removed to the Recreation Ground and replaced with new benches, as a way to mark the Royal Birthday.

This is recommendation from the town council task group set up to come up with ideas to mark the Queen's birthday; but not every town councillor agrees the old benches should go.

The matter was discussed at last week's annual town council meeting in the Community Hall, Lawnside Road, but opinion seems to be divided.

Cllr Andrew Harrison pointed out that new benches had been discussed for the Recreation Ground, which is a popular meeting spot for young people, and he said of the Market House benches: "If they are not good enough to go by the Market House, why are they good enough for the Recreation Ground?"

Cllr Tony Bradford said he recalled the benches from his youth and added: "I would not like to lose those benches. They are antique."

But the idea of removing and replacing the Market House benches was carried by a vote.

No costings have been given as yet, for the cost of the new benches.

Cllr Bradford was also concerned that while a tea party to mark the Queen's birthday year is being planned for ninety selected pensioners at the Community Hall, on September 26, no similar celebration is being planned for young people in the town.

He said: "Surely, young people need to be introduced into this process. Can't we have a celebration for our youth?"

But no action was taken on his recommendation.

The town council has agreed to spent up to £500 on red, white and blue bunting for the town, and to purchase a Union Flag with the Royal Standard, for the town centre.

A further 30 smaller Union Flags will also be purchased.

There will be a Community Book signing in the Burgage Hall, on June 11, where Ledbury people will be able to offer their best wishes to the Queen.

This will be during Ledbury Community Day, at the Ledbury Town Council stand.

Afterwards, the book will be available for signing at the Ledbury Town Council offices, in Church Lane.