A LANCASTER man's unique dream to mark the beginning of the 21st century has run into difficulties with London's Millennium Dome.

Stuart Leach, a former plumber's merchant, has toiled seven days a week for 14 months to create what he describes as "The Millennium Doom" - an interactive alien experience.

But the capital city big wigs are unhappy with Stuart's ambitious project and sharp suited lawyers have objected to him patenting the name "Millennium Doom."

The mobile attraction, 11 trucks which fit together to form a labyrinth where all is not as it seems, has also left local bureaucrats bemused.

"The Millennium Dome people weren't happy," said Stuart, who had the idea for his interactive adventure in a dream. "They tried to stop me patenting the name and sent me threatening letters but they backed off a bit when they realised it wasn't a dome I was building. I don't want to give too much away - let's just say it's a travelling exhibition of dinosaur eggs."

Stuart plans to take his mobile attraction around the country in the new year but first he has to get through a stack of red tape.

"The authorities are not sure how to classify me because I'm mobile," he said. "I 'm well aware that I've got to fulfil health and safety regulations but it isn't a fairground ride or a typical attraction. The Millennium Doom is unique and it's left them scratching their heads. I just want to get it finished and get on the road so the public can see it."

With the massive labyrinth structure now virtually complete, Stuart is now focusing on developing the special effects.

"I'm looking for a couple of mannequins to turn into body parts and a broken fish tank if anyone has got one! In the new year I'll also be looking for people to help bring the Millennium Doom alive."

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