THESE little ones probably had little idea why they were having a party - but they weren't going to let on.

If it meant cake, cola and crowns, they would keep quiet and just enjoy the day - and if the photographer from the Telegraph came to take their picture, well, they would sit and pose, too, as long as he didn't take too long.....

These little ones attended Ashworth Nursery School, Blackburn, back in 1977, when the Queen celebrated 25 years on the throne.

And they, like most across East Lancashire, marked the occasion with Silver Jubilee parties and events from dawn till dusk.

Their teachers helped them make some special party hats and, by the look of it, musical instruments, too, including drums, shakers and bells, so they could make their own music.

Red, white and blue was the order of the day on June 7, 40 years ago, as people took the day off work, streets were closed, the bunting hung out and trestle tables set up as the people of our communities joined the rest of the nation, to celebrate the special milestone.