TODAY, May 1, heralds an historic day for Europe, one which rightly should be celebrated with joy.

Ten more nations, seven of them formerly part of the Soviet bloc, will join the European Union.

The final vestiges of the Iron Curtain are being swept away as Europe begins to reunite.

How soon we forget that less than 15 years ago, two huge nuclear armies faced each other across the plains of Central Europe.

Now hope, friendship and co-operation replace despair, fear and suspicion.

The idea of war between EU members states now seems absurd. This hasn't happened by accident. It is the fruit of the vision and tireless work of the people of our continent who created those institutions we know as the European Union.

GARY ARTHURS, Regional Director, North West in Europe.