Queen Elizabeth throwing star-studded children's party at Buckingham Palace

Feb 2, 2006, 22:47 GMT

Britain's Queen Elizabeth is throwing a star-studded children's party at Buckingham Palace to mark her 80th birthday.

'Harry Potter' author JK Rowling and Daniel Radcliffe, who plays the magical teenage wizard in the hit films, will be among those at the event on Sunday June 25.

The queen has opened a national ballot for youngsters wanting to attend the tea party in- which will be a celebration of children's stories.

Much loved characters from both traditional and more modern books will be there, including Paddington Bear, Mowgli and Winnie the Pooh.

All children living in the UK aged between four and 14 are invited to apply for tickets through a national ballot by logging on to the CBBC website.

The party will feature a colourful entertainment show - which will be broadcast live on television.

A Palace spokeswoman said: 'The Children's Party will be a celebration of British children's literature, both traditional and modern, which we hope will encourage children to read and enjoy books.

'The day will also focus on the family and the key role that grandparents and parents, relatives and friends can play in shaping a child's love of books through the favourite stories.

'We hope this day will encourage children to explore new worlds through the characters and their stories.'

Other events taking place this year to mark the queen's milestone birthday include a National Service of Thanksgiving on June 15 at St Paul's Cathedral.

On the same day, Elizabeth will tuck into a special lunch - with the menu chosen by members of the public as part of a television programme.

Copyright 2006 BANG Media International