WHAT a fantastic show Oxfordshire residents have put on for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The phrase once-in-a-lifetime is often overused. But this weekend is truly one of those occasions.

From the trestle tables stretching across Banbury’s Market Place to bun throwing in Abingdon and anvil firing in Bicester, the county has certainly celebrated in a unique way.

We have seen teddy bears’ picnics, bus rides, face painting, hog roasts, fancy dress and royal look-a-likes.

Everyone from new-born babies to pensioners has got involved and really embraced the spirit of the occasion.

Even the wet weather – itself very fittingly British – failed to dampen the celebrations.

You just need to look at the number of pensioners who remember the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 to know how historic this weekend of festivities really is.

We wonder how many people will still have their cardboard crowns, commemorative mugs or even their souvenir copy of today’s Oxford Mail in 60 years’ time.

But the true legacy of these celebrations will also live on well after the bunting has been packed away, the trestle tables folded up and the leftover strawberries finished off.

The first seeds of many friendships will have been sown. Existing relationships between neighbours will have been strengthened. And bonds between strangers will have been formed.

Those who argue real community is not what it was just need to take a stroll through the streets of Oxfordshire.

We have done ourselves – and Her Majesty – proud.