Mansfield’s shoppers are being invited to enjoy a weekend of summer-themed fun when Four Seasons celebrates the Queen’s 90th birthday.

The queen opened the library at the centre in 1977, and the shopping centre is recapturing the spirit of that Silver Jubilee year with three days of free, family fun.

The festivities begin on Friday, 10 June, with a very British tea party, featuring live music throughout the day and a special ‘Royal knit and knatter’ workshop. Shoppers will be able to join in with an organised knitting group – including expert tuition for those who need it – and chat about their memories of Her Majesty, whilst enjoying birthday cupcakes and drinks. Live swing and jazz music will be performed by Beth Macari, who will be covering classics by everyone from Doris Day and Glenn Miller through to Dusty Springfield and Nina Simone.

“The tables will be dressed in mismatched tablecloths, and the refreshments will all be served in vintage cups and saucers,” said Rebekah O’Neill, Centre Manager at Four Seasons. “With bunting, balloons and other royalty-themed party props, we’re going all out to make sure this is a Great British party that does justice to the momentous occasion.”

From Saturday, 10 June, a special ‘guard hut’ – complete with bearskin-wearing guards – will be adding to the royal flavour of the weekend, and just the like the real thing the guards are guaranteed to not move.

“We’re holding craft workshops for children on Saturday, where they can make and decorate their own bejewelled crown fit for a king or queen,” said Rebekah. “We’re also inviting shoppers to join us to decorate delicious celebratory cupcakes, using everything from icing pens and royal cake-toppers to flags and all things red, white and blue.”

A mischievous ‘magic selfie mirror’ will also be on-hand for interactive photo fun, providing constructive comments and suggestions for people posing for pictures, and there will be an extra treat for little ones in the form of a Prince & Princess Party.

“We’re inviting our younger shoppers to come to the centre dressed as their favourite princes and princesses,” said Rebekah. “We will be giving away crowns and tiaras to those who have dressed to impress, and there’ll also be songs, games and story-telling too.”

The fun and games continue on Sunday, 12 June, when Four Seasons stages its own summer fete, with music being played throughout the centre and a whole host of activities for all the family. “We’ll have everything from hook a duck and buzz-wire games to the strength test and of course, popcorn and candy floss,” said Rebekah.

“We really wanted to mark the occasion in style and we’re hoping that everyone will have a fabulous fun weekend as we celebrate the Queen’s special day.”