The clock is ticking away as the countdown to the Millennium begins and planning for local festivities gets underway.

That is the message from the Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council which is now taking the lead in organising special events for the night of December 31 1999 in and around the Shenley Road area.

And businesses and shops throughout the town are being asked to get involved with the celebrations to mark the start of the 21st century.

Paul Welsh, the town council's entertainments officer, said planning has already started for a spectacular fireworks display booked for midnight on that date with the full support of the Boulevard retail park's management.

Hertsmere Borough Council is also getting involved and it is expected that Shenley Road will be sealed off to traffic from Eldon Avenue to the junction with Furzehill Road to clear the way for festivities.

"The councillors are very aware that many local individuals or families will look for some entertainment that night rather than to travel into London or elsewhere," said Mr Welsh.

"We would welcome ideas from the public as to what they would like to have organised and we would certainly welcome participation from local companies and retail outlets."

Anyone wishing to get involved in the town's Millennium celebrations can contact Paul Welsh on 0181 207 1382.

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