COMMUNITY groups are being urged to sign up for what promises to be the most unforgettable 12 months in the 700-year history of Congleton.

Dozens of organisations have already given the thumbs up to a year-long series of events being planned for the town to mark the next millennium.

And the celebrations are due to begin with a huge bang with a spectacular fireworks display and concert in Congleton Park on New Year's Eve 1999.

More than 130 local groups have been invited to join in the year-long festival to mark the year 2000, which is being spearheaded by a 17-strong group of local people.

Members of the Millennium Celebrations committee are hoping to attract a major entertainment star for the once-in-a lifetime New Year's Eve party in the park.

Some £7,500 has been promised by Congleton Town Council to stage the event, profits from which would be used to support the year-long town festival.

Committee members are hoping to stage a community event almost every night of the year throughout 2000 in a bid to emulate Congleton's Charter year celebrations in 1972.

Committee chairman councillor Douglas Parker was undaunted by the challenge facing his group, and was optimistic of gaining the wholehearted support of the town for the ambitious project.

"I have sent 130 letters to local groups asking if they want to do something towards the 2000 celebrations, and people are already asking for specific dates,'' said councillor Parker.

"I'm sure people will want to take part because it is something they will never see again in their lifetime.''

He urged local groups to contact the committee to avoid missing out on celebrations which are also tapping into the talents of Congleton schoolchildren.

Students and pupils at colleges, high and primary schools in the town and surrounding area are being invited to design a logo which will be used to promote the year of Millennium celebrations.

Major prizes are on offer for individual winners and their schools, with judging due to take place in December.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.