MORE than 15,000 people took to the streets for a torchlight procession marking the millennium.

Over 80 floats and marching bands processed through the centre of Clitheroe to herald the start of the town's Year 2000 celebrations.

The last procession through the town in 1992 celebrated 40 years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth.

The start of the procession was marked with cannon fire from Clitheroe Castle Keep, which was lit up throughout the night by lasers.

The floats, including a huge replica of the sinking Titanic, then went on a two-hour procession around the town to the castle.

Local firms, including Castle Cement and Barnes and Tipping, lent trucks, trailers and drivers for the event, which was followed by a massive firework display.

Town centre pubs and clubs enjoyed a bumper trade as merrymaking continued late into the night.

Throughout the weekend Clitheroe Castle hosted medieval-style jousting and fairground displays.

Clitheroe Mayor Alan Yearing said the procession was a huge success and the result of a great community effort.

"It was a thoroughly enjoyable night and a credit to the town. The standard of the floats was very high and I would like to thank everyone who took part for helping to make it such a memorable event," he said.

The winner of the competition for the best float was Clitheroe's French Connection twinning group with "Titanic."

Second was Timbermatic with "Bodgit and Scarper" and third was Booth's Supermarket with "James Bond."

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