Two gentlemen, who have both celebrated their 90th birthdays this year, were invited to light the Beacon at the Prospect to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Long term Ross resident, Fred Walton was joined by a relative newcomer to the town, Harold Dennis, to perform this special task.

Deputy Lieutenant, Major Patrick Darling, told the large crowds gathered at the Prospect that Ross should be very proud of the way it had marked such a special event. The special ceremony was organised by the Deputy Clerk of Ross Town Council.

He told the hundreds of spectators who had gathered at the Prospect that Ross-on-Wye was the first market town to get behind the plans to light beacons across the country, and although other towns had joined in he said that Ross had really done well.

Members of the public started gathering from about 7.30pm and were entertained by Ross Town Band. At 7.50pm Patrick Darling DL and the Mayor of Ross, Councillor Colin Gray arrived at the Prospect and walked through a guard of honour provided by Ross and Monmouth Sea Cadets.

The Mayor then welcomed everyone, this was followed by a prayer from Reverend Nick Adley and the singing of the National Anthem.

Major Darling then read a message from HRH the Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, which was specially written for the occasion.

Then the two nonogenarians came forward to perform the symbolic lighting and the flames soon took hold and lit the night sky as dusk began to fall.

Members of Scouting and Guiding, Army Cadets and Sea Cadets joined Ross Town Band and local residents to sing Happy Birthday. Youngsters were given 90 pictures of candles to hold up during the singing. Then everyone was able to enjoy slices of a special cake baked by Sue Kirby while the bells of St Mary’s rang out in celebration.

Members of Ross Lions acted as stewards and members of St John Ambulance also attended.