THE East of England Co-op is helping businesses in Aldeburgh put out the flags to mark HM the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympic Games.

The co-operative society, which has two food stores in the town, has given the Aldeburgh Business Association (ABA) 38 large Union Jack flags

Liz Biagioni, secretary of the ABA, said: “Martyn Howard from Suffolk Secrets, whose artistic talents were a huge asset to the ABA in bedecking the town for the Christmas Lights celebrations, has been envisaging patriotic decorations fit for a Queen for months.

“When I told him that Aldeburgh Business Association had secured such a generous contribution from the town’s two East of England Co-operative stores in Aldeburgh High Street and on Saxmundham Road, he was over the moon.”

She added: “The excitement is really building as the community prepares itself for these historic events and businesses are pulling out the stops to create a perfect backdrop for all the activities scheduled over the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend which range from family fun filled entertainment at the Jubilee Hall and a Flower Festival at Aldeburgh Parish Church, to Proms by the Sea with The Grace Spitfire air display and firework finale.

“It’s going to be a great occasion for visitors and residents alike and the support of our local co-op stores is a big boost to moral businesses in the High Street in these challenging times. We are very grateful and appreciate the community spirit demonstrated by the East of England Co-op for which they are renowned.”

Andrew Dawes, retail liaison controller for the East of England Co-operative Society, said: “The co-operative movement has been part of the fabric of the community in Aldeburgh since 1885, and we are delighted to be able to join in the Jubilee and Olympic celebrations.

“As a community retailer we actively support our local and regional economy. We’re proud to be flying the flag for Aldeburgh for these historic celebrations in partnership with the business association.”