BLACKPOOL'S week of commemoration marking 60 years since the second world war ended get under way on Saturday and Sunday with '"From the Past to the Present," a two day family event at Stanley Park showground (by the De Vere Hotel).

The fun packed family day out will include an arena where diff erent demonstrations will be taking place, a funfair, a Re-enactment Society entertaining the crowds and the Red Devils Parachute Team. Admission is free.

Also on Saturday, the Empress Ballroom at the Winter Gardens will be the setting for a five course celebration dinner to the sound of the Lancashire Royal Artillery Band with pipes and drums. The entertainment packed evening will also feature a top class cabaret show.

On July 5 and 6, the 'We'll Meet Again' show takes place at the Winter Gardens - a Dougie Chapman tribute to Bing Crosby, Vera Lynn, Gracie Fields, Flanagan & Allan, Donald Peers, Max Wall, Robb Wilton and Anne Shelton at the Winter Gardens.

On July 6 The Tower Ballroom will host an Afternoon Tea Dance that will no doubt bring memories flooding back for all the people who enjoyed dancing in the magnificent Ballroom during the war years to the sound of the mighty Wurlitzer and Werzi organs.

From July 7 to 10 a European Market, featuring continental goods and delicacies, will add a bustle and buzz on Church Street for four days.

A Fireworks Spectacular takes place on from around 10pm on July 8, Blackpool's breathtaking tribute show of fireworks for everyone involved in the war effort will be set off at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

On July 9, a Freedom of the Borough Parade features the 12 Regiment Royal Artillery who have recently been honoured with Freedom of Entry of the Borough of Blackpool and they will take part in a service and blessing at St John's Church followed by a formal presentation outside the Town Hall and parade through the town.

That night big band music, ballroom dancing and the Wurlitzer organ will all help transform the Tower Ballroom into a nostalgic extravaganza. The forties style entertainment evening will include the Lancashire Royal Artillery Band beating the retreat. Forties style dress optional.

On July 9 and 10 a 'Vehicles for Victory' display of historic military vehicles will be on show on the Promenade for both visitors and residents to enjoy. There will also be exhibitions of modern military technology from the RAF, Army and Navy.

Finally, on July 10, Lancashire's official commemorative Cenotaph service, hosted by Blackpool Council and in the presence of the Bishop of Blackburn will be held at the Cenotaph. Lord Shuttleworth,

Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire will attend, together with full civic dignitaries. This service will be an opportunity for everybody involved in the

war eff ort to be proud of what they have achieved. Time: 10.30am for 11am start.