ALTON is to have a new Diamond Jubilee bandstand in the Public Gardens.

Following design modifications to fit the public purse, approval of the design and confirmation of funding, the go-ahead has been given for the £76,440 project.

Alton Town Council is spearheading the initiative, which is to be Alton's main commemoration of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

The present stand, which is well used, was installed in 1937 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of King George V.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.