Bunting is being unravelled in all corners of Islington as patriotic residents prepare to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee this weekend.

A total of 40 streets will close to make way for parties commemorating Her Majesty’s 60th year on the throne over the four-day knees-up – compared to 10 for last year’s Royal Wedding.

And the number of bashes could be even higher as those living in the borough’s many squares were not obliged to obtain permission for a party, although the council did ask them to let them know of any plans.

Councillors pledged to put “bunting before red tape” for the occasion to encourage as many Islingtonians as possible to mark the occasion, and most of the shindigs do not require a licence if food and alcohol will not be on sale.

As well as street parties, pubs and other organisations will also be staging public events to raise a toast to the Queen, while many of the borough’s schools are set to kick off the festivities with their own playground parties tomorrow.

Council leader Catherine West said: “Nothing brings the community together like a street party, so I am delighted so many residents are celebrating over the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee weekend.

“We’ve cut red tape to make the process easier for our residents. Now all party planners and guests have to worry about is the weather.”

Col Brian Kay OBE, who is planning a party in Hatchard Road, Upper Holloway, as chairman of Islington Chinese Association, said: “Of all the London boroughs, Islington leads the way in welcoming people from all over the world.

“So it’s fitting that our unique, multicultural Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebration will bring together residents from a broad spectrum of faiths and backgrounds.”