There were champagne moments on Liskeard's new-look Parade when the town's residents, both old and young, gathered to herald in the new Millennium in style.

The town council had arranged an evening which attracted well over l,000 good-natured revellers, and proved to be such a success it could be a precursor of annual New Year's Eve events in the town.

There was live music during the evening, the serving of 200 lamb rolls, a screen on the side of Webb's Hotel showing BBC live coverage, a speech by mayor Roger Holmes, the dedication of the Celtic cross, and a count-down from town crier, Frank Beer.

Chairman of the town council's Millennium committee, Tony Powell, said that everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and there was no rowdiness whatsoever.

Just before midnight the crowds were joined by customers from the Carlton Suite and town centre pubs who strolled outside to take in the festivities. During the good-natured countdown one reveller, in a monkey suit, climbed the fountain and loosed a shower of champagne.

Ensuring all went smoothly was Mr Powell, councillor Chris Ferguson, town council staff and members, and Jane and Paul Pascoe. Mr Powell said such had been the night's success, despite the weather, that it was hoped it would be a precursor for other New Year's Eve events.