STAR-gazing officials of a newly-launched society are scanning their 'local universe' for interested new members.

St Helens Amateur Astronomical Society, established to coincide with all the hype and excitement of the total eclipse on August 11 and just in time for the new millennium - represents a lifetime's dream for Carl Dingsdale, co-founder with friend, Andrew Williams, of the sky-scanning group.

And they're delighted to have had the seal of approval from that doyen of astronomers, Patrick ('Sky at Night') Moore.

"He's sent his best wishes and wished us good luck," reports Carl, "and he's kindly planning to include us in his 2001 Astronomy Year Book."

The St Helens group hopes to encourage newcomers to the hobby, as well as people advanced in the science.

The 30th anniversary of Neil Armstrong's "giant leap" of a walk on the moon is hoped to be another spur to the recruitment campaign.

Unable to make the journey to Cornwall, the premier British vantage point for the forthcoming total eclipse, Carl and his colleagues have settled for a visit to Towyn, North Wales, for a demonstration of safe solar eclipse observation.

Local churches there have collaborated with the venture, which Carl has dubbed Operation Shadow.

It starts at 9am by the beach wall behind the fun-fair and will follow a set route to the parish church.

Expert advice on how to take photographs, using special filters, and on the dangers of exposing one's gaze to the sun, will be given.

During the day, refreshments will be available at the Towyn church. And in the evening there will be a celebratory 'Star Party' for anyone who wishes to join in.

Any St Helens folk on holiday in that part of North Wales, or prepared to make a day trip to Towyn, are welcome to go along, says Carl.

He adds that the St Helens group is currently making contacts world-wide in search of up-to-date information about such things as comets and the kind of meteor showers to look out for.

A series of group meetings, visits to places of interest, lectures and sky-observing events are also in the pipeline.

ANYONE wishing for more information on the Towyn trip, or interested in joining the group, can phone Carl on St Helens 631802; or write to him at 125 Canberra Avenue, Thatto Heath, St Helens WA9 5RT.

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