Britain's fantasy palace

Jun 22, 2006, 14:08 GMT

Britain's Buckingham Palace has been transformed into fantasy land of children's literature - to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's 80th birthday.

A colourful map has also been unveiled, which reveals famous book characters, fantasy locations and events taking place at the celebration this Sunday (25.06.06).

The event - aimed to mark the success of children's literature and popularise reading among youngsters - will feature entertaining events like Mad Hatter's Tea Party.

According to Britain's Daily Mail newspaper, the entire palace grounds will be dedicated to the celebration, which has a host of exciting surprises in store for the 2,000 lucky young guests and 1,000 of their parents.

Apart from visiting 'Fairyland', the children will also be invited to Mr McGregor's Garden - based on writer Beatrix Potter's 'Tale of Peter Rabbit'. p

opular animal characters from the 'Jungle Book' will be brought to life during the afternoon activities and Britain's most famous cartoon character - Thomas the Tank Engine - will make an appearance.

Guests for the event - latest one to celebrate the monarch's milestone jubilee - won the invites through a ballot.

The party will also see performances from a host of British celebrities and popular TV chef, Jamie Oliver, is to prepare the feast.

The queen - who is expected to briefly join the magical garden celebration - will be attending a live show later in the evening.

Set on a specially constructed stage, the performers will feature TV presenter Jonathan Ross, actress Patsy Kensit and 'Harry Potter' star Julie Walters.

After the star-studded show, the monarch will address the audience.

The event will be attended by several members of the royal family including the Duke of Edinburgh and the Countess of Wessex.

Copyright 2006 BANG Media International