ST ANNES Millennium carnival has been cancelled this year after organisers were blighted by a series of set-backs.

First the date was moved from its usual July slot to September 2 to accommodate a special Millennium torchlight parade. But it was only later that the committee realised the new date meant children would be back at school.

The problems continued when the St Annes Charity Carnival Association chairman resigned due to family commitments.

The resignation of the secretary followed and then the association was left without a parade marshall.

News of the cancellation was confirmed at a meeting held earlier this week. But, despite the bad news, new chairman Angela Jacques was optimistic about next year's charity event, saying it was going to be better than ever. She said a new committee had now been formed and next year's carnival date had been set for July 7.

"Plans did not come into fruition and we were hit by a number of small problems which all added up to bigger things and we did not want it to be a failure because all the proceeds go to charities. "It is very disappointing because this year was going to be a special Millennium day but now we have next year to look forward to and I hope people will give us their support," said Mrs Jacques.

"We have a new committee now and have set the date for next year's carnival. We are really looking forward to next year and we hope that people are going to support us."