HALSTEAD Town Council is to host a special set of events to mark King Charles’ coronation.

The council has agreed the budget and precept for 2023/24, and has set out some of the changes and events it will be hosting this year.

The council says it is coping with increased energy costs and will not pass on any costs to residents.

A council spokesman said: “The council, like everyone else, is coping with increased costs, particularly for energy, but has decided not to pass on any of the extra costs to the residents of Halstead.”

Following this, they have outlined a set of events to mark the coronation of King Charles, who ascended to the throne last year.

The spokesman continued: “The budget includes funding for all the usual events and activities that we have enjoyed in previous years.

“In addition, the council has decided to put on special events for the Coronation weekend, May 6 and 7.

“These will include a large daylight screen in the Public Gardens, to enable the public to watch the coronation together in the park.

“This will be followed in the afternoon by a family-friendly film, and on Sunday the Beavers will perform once again in the Public Gardens.”

The council says there will be no increase to the cost of car parking or permits, but it is increasing council tax by 1.98 per cent which is 97p a year for the average Band D property.

The council will also be helping and supporting local clubs and organisations, with the total budget for grants maintained at £4,000 for 2023/24.

Applications for grants will open from April and close at end of June.

Those wanting more details should contact the council.