More than 1,000 churches across all denominations in the UK will light a beacon to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year.

In 2012, the Queen will become only the second monarch in British history to celebrate sixty years on the throne, the previous monarch being Queen Victoria.

Churches of all denominations throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are being encouraged to take part in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Beacons by lighting a special church beacon on 4 June 2012 to mark the occasion.

Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York said: “Here in York, we are delighted to be participating in celebrating Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee by taking part in the Church Beacon initiative.

“It is important that the Church is seen at the heart of our communities. Lighting beacons for the Diamond Jubilee is a magnificent way to celebrate our Monarch’s 60 loyal years and faithful service to this nation. I want to commend this project to all churches across the UK.

"Light a Beacon and raise a toast to Her Majesty The Queen. Long live The Queen!”

Premier Christian Radio, in association with other church networks, will provide those wishing to take part with the relevant information and materials to organise events, and along with other media networks, will be broadcasting from across the UK as part of the celebration.

Peter Kerridge, CEO of Premier Christian Media, said: “We are honoured to be invited to take part in these historic celebrations. It’s a wonderful opportunity for churches across the country to really get involved in this unique occasion and lead their local communities as they join this unique initiative.”

Bruno Peek, of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Beacons, said, “I am delighted that Premier Christian Media have agreed to join this event, to assist us and other churches, faith communities, groups and organisations in encouraging the lighting of 1,000 church beacons throughout the United Kingdom, bringing all areas of the Christian community together in one common celebration of this historic moment in The Queen’s life and in her reign too.”