The Queen has written a special message for local and regional newspapers for Local Newspaper Week which takes place next month.

Hundreds of daily and weekly local papers take part in Local Newspaper Week each year.

Starting on 21 May it showcases how local papers help communities celebrate important national events the Diamond Jubilee and London 2012 Olympics.

The Queen’s article, along with articles from other high profile contributors will be made available through the Week website for local papers to download and use during the LNW, which coincides with the Society of Editors Regional Press Awards and NS AGM on 25 May. 

Organised by the Newspaper Society the annual event aims to tap into the mood of celebration in the run up to the two important national events with local papers invited to take part by showcasing how they are helping communities take part in these.

A NS spokesperson said: “Local papers could take part by linking their Jubilee and Olympics build-up coverage to LNW, getting involved in organising street parties, and highlighting their role in making national events relevant to their communities.”

Over the coming weeks more content will be added to the Week website for local papers to download and use during the Week alongside their own Week-themed news stories, features and supplements.