The public has been invited to the Queen’s Birthday Party — for the third consecutive year.

Previously only invited guests attended the celebration but two years ago Governor George Fergusson threw open the event to all residents.

This year the party will be held on Thursday, April 20 at Government House between 6 and 8pm.

Current Governor John Rankin said: “My predecessors, George and Margaret Fergusson, were instrumental in opening up the Queen’s Birthday Party to a far wider range of the community than in previous years. I am keen to carry on this new tradition. “Government House is again inviting anyone who would like to attend this year’s Queen Birthday Party to complete the online entry form. Sadly, the numbers can’t be unlimited but we shall make a good proportion of invitations available to those applying.

“This will be an occasion to celebrate Her Majesty’s Birthday and to enjoy the Gardens of Government House and the Band of the Bermuda Regiment.”

The online entry form can be found on the Government House website and Facebook page. The link will be active from noon on Tuesday, 28 February until noon on Friday, 10 March 2017.