ORGANISERS of the Preston Maritime Festival have put together an exciting, fun-packed event to celebrate the Millennium in style.

Now Partnership Projects want to hear your views on the proposed plan, which is aimed at making the occasion a memorable evening for local party-goers.

Expecting many pubs and clubs will be closed by the run-up to midnight, the group have proposed that entertainment should kick off from 11.30pm, using a float moored at the centre of Preston Dock, pictured.

They suggest that the countdown to midnight should be marked by fireworks at one minute intervals before more than 2,000 revellers link arms around the mile-perimeter of the Dock Basin.

As organisers of the annual Maritime Festival, the group are confident that adequate safety and rescue facilities will be on hand, in case there be a 'Titanic' disaster.

Festival director Andrew Harris said: "If this event is wanted we feel it is practical to make all the necessary safety and entertainment arrangements.

"It offers people a real chance to participate in a major event which would be unique and memorable.

"At this stage, we have agreed to seek a local reaction to the suggestion and talk to Preston Borough Council about the use of the facilities if there is a widespread wish for the event."

Call Andrew with your views on the proposed event on (01772) 556656.

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