COAL HARBOUR— A modest crowd came to the latest in the region's series of celebrations throughout August marking Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee.
The Coal Harbour Activity Centre drew visitors in their finery to an afternoon tea and dance in honour of Her Highness and the room was suitably decked out with Union Jacks, portraits of Her Majesty, a throne and, of course, fine china and cucumber sandwiches.
The visitors were each invited to construct a fascinator— a type of head piece — and enjoyed an impromptu quickstep lesson before moving outside for a very British tradition— cheese-rolling.
In the English event, huge crowds are drawn to the Cotswolds to pit themselves against a round of Double Gloucester. The cheese is rolled down a steep hill and competitors then charge after it in an attempt to beat it down the hill.
Coal Harbour's event was a touch more civilized, with competitors vying to send a wooden replica the furthest down a staked-out area.
From there, the group returned to the Activity Centre, where a dance instructor moved participants through the steps of a jive, and the music, dancing and fun continued through until 6 p.m.
The event was one of a series planned for the month and the next event on August 18 will see participants in a tennis workshop learn the skills that will take them one step closer to Centre Court at Wimbledon.
The event is free, and features Sointula Tennis Club instructor Shane Field. There will be a limited number of extra rackets on hand but, if those who own their own are encouraged to bring it along.
In Port Hardy the event begins at 10 a.m. beside the Civic Centre for ages 6-10. Ages 11-15 pick up their rackets at 10:30, and the court is open to all from noon.
The event then moves to Port McNeill where the same format is followed, beginning 2:30 for younger kids, 3 p.m. for older kids and 4:30 for everyone else.
To pre-register for the event email donnag@cablerocket.com or leave a message at 250-949-2681.