SIDMOUTH could mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year by splashing out on a special water fountain and lighting beacons along the seafront.

Civic leaders last week discussed how the town should celebrate the landmark after learning Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce plans to stage a street party, classic car show and jazz event.

Town councillors agreed beacons could be lit at rock groynes along the beach when they met last Monday – and will look at other ways to mark Her Majesty’s 60 years on the throne.

“We have got to mark this,” said Councillor Ann Liverton.

“We didn’t even have a table at the Royal Wedding street party. I would like to suggest some form of civic art somewhere in the town, so it’s set in history.

“We’re not going to get a Diamond Jubilee for a few generations.”

Cllr Graham Liverton suggested a water fountain at the Three Cornered Plot.

He added: “Something quite spectacular would be well done. This is something we can really pull together on in Sidmouth.”

Cllr Dawn Manley hoped something could be done at an ‘under-sued’ location behind The Ham play area by the river.

“Maybe we can make that an attractive part of town,” she said. “I felt when I walked down there it let Sidmouth down.”

Cllr Christine Drew wanted to see something in the Town Square.

“I’m sure there are many good organisations around town that would be happy to put their hands in their pockets, and we could have something absolutely superb,” added Cllr John Hollick.

The government has announced an official Jubilee Weekend from June 2 to June 5 in 2012.