A community stalwart and proud royalist was given the honour of lighting the beacon in his home village to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.

Eastern Daily Press: John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday. (Image: Archant)

John Blowers, 83, has served the Blundeston community in a variety of roles over the years, including as vice-chairman of the parish council and of the village hall committee.

He has also been actively involved in the Royal British Legion (RBL) and was the village's first beacon keeper, before handing duties over to fellow resident Brian Shelton.

In recognition of his contribution to the village, the parish council asked him to push the all-important switch to light the beacon tonight (Thursday, April 21) in honour of Her Majesty.

More than 50 people gathered on Blundeston's Millennium Field to watch the event, giving three cheers and singing happy birthday to the Queen as Mr Blowers lit the flame 7.30pm.

Eastern Daily Press: John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday. (Image: Archant)

'It was a great honour to be asked to ignite the flame,' Mr Blowers said.

'I'm a great supporter of the monarchy for what it does and who they are.'

Ken Ward, former chairman of the Blundeston RBL, said: 'John has done a lot of work for the village.

'It was really good to see so many people here - there's a great community spirit in Blundeston.'

Eastern Daily Press: John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.John Blowers switched on the beacon to mark the Queen's 90th birthday. (Image: Archant)

Asked what his birthday message would be to the Queen, Mr Ward said: 'Carry on the good work!'

Mr Shelton added: 'We've got a lot of Royalists in Blundeston and people appreciate the fact we've got a monarchy. The Queen is such a lovely woman.'

Among the residents to turn out was Debby McKernan. She said: 'You've got to support our Royals. She's been on the throne for such a long time, she's got to be doing something right.'

Is your community marking the Queen's 90th birthday? Email andrew.papworth@archant.co.uk