IN the final half hour of the 20th century, at about 11.40pm on December 31 this year, it has been planned that large, granite Celtic crosses will be dedicated at various points around the edge of Liskeard - at the 'gates' of the town.

They will be dedicated by the various Christian church communities of Liskeard, as part of the Millennium celebrations. In the past there were actual crosses at places like Lux cross, Barras cross, Lamellion cross etc, which were then points of entry to the town, and the intention is to replace these, but at the present boundaries, in the hope that they will last for several centuries. The crosses will have individual styles taken from some of the existing ancient crosses in Cornwall.

Celtic crosses are some of the most ancient relics in Cornwall. The far more ancient custom of erecting standing stones to mark events, or commemorate individuals or establish boundaries, was carried forward into the Christian era by making them reminders of Christ's sacrifice and triumph. The principal authority on this subject is Andrew Langdon of Wadebridge, who will be at St Martin's church hall, Liskeard at 7.30pm on February 18 to give an illustrated talk. The actual venue will be the old church school next to the church.

The talk has been arranged by Stuart House Trust so that the people of Liskeard can have the chance to find out about the different styles of crosses, their locations and what has been discovered about their purpose and origins. Admission to the talk will cost £2, concessions £1.50.