RESIDENTS of Sid Griffiths Court celebrated the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in style with a special buffet lunch on Friday.

With all things red, white and blue in their communal lounge, bunting hanging from the ceiling, Union Jack plates, cups and napkins, and a fantastic spread of food.

Along with added entertainment in the form of a hat competition, a game of their beloved bingo, a raffle and a quiz about the royal family.

The Garndiffaith sheltered housing residents and friends from the bungalows across the road were certainly in good spirits to mark the Queen's 60 years on the throne.

Quite a contrast to a few months earlier when they were concerned they would be forced to leave their homes.

But since Bron Afon announced they will be improving the complex, residents feel more content.

Kay Rudge, a resident of Sid Griffiths Court for 14 years said: "The day was very successful, everyone seemed to enjoy it and made a real effort.

"It was such a turn around after all the upset."

John Harris, 90, who is known as Jack and is the eldest resident at Sid Griffiths enjoyed the jubilee celebrations.

He said: "Everyone has done a wonderful job. I remember the Queen's Coronation but couldn't say exactly what I was doing on the day to celebrate. It was a long time ago.

"I have lived in Garndiffaith all my life, I love the place, and I hope to die here too."

Barbara Warfield, 75, who won first prize in the hat competition, having decorated her great grandfather's fold down top hat which is more than 100 years old said: "Sid Griffiths is a very nice place. We all get on so well.

"I remember having a street party for the Queen's Silver Jubilee.

"The Queen would have been proud of our celebrations to mark her Diamond Jubilee."

Wayne Willmott, 73, from the bungalows opposite Sid Griffiths said: "The Queen does a marvellous job. I can remember having a street party at Varteg for her Coronation.

"The food was a luxury for me that day, coming from a family of 15."

Vera Jones, 79, also from the bungalows and a former typist for the Free Press said: "The Queen is lovely, so lovely, she's done a great job and never put a foot wrong."