THERE could be a financial headache as well as a hangover for East Lancashire revellers if their New Year's Eve party goes wrong, the Association of British Insurers has warned.

Unlucky party hosts may find their dreams of the year 2000 have become a nightmare if their insurance policies are not brought up to date.

A spokesman for the ABI stressed that insurance policies may need to be altered for household or street parties and that people should check with their own companies before going ahead with the festivities.

There are a number of timely tips to hand for anyone organising a millennium party:

1. Put valuable items out of the way to avoid accidents.

2. If planning fireworks in the garden be sure to follow the usual basic safety procedures.

3. Accidents can happen at any party so make sure there is a first aid kit handy

4. Keep an eye out for burglars. Make sure you know who is coming into your home - don't leave it to guests to let people in. If you are visiting friends, make sure your own home is secure and leave a light on so that it looks occupied.

5. Check the scope of cover provided by your household policy. Check that your accidental cover is adequate and that your contents policy includes causing injury to others and expensive gifts which may be on the property.

6. If you intend to hold a street party, or are selling tickets for a gathering in your own home, tell your insurer. Household policies are not designed to cover large scale or commercial events so your insurer will need to assess what you are planning.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.