WATCHED by a crowd of nearly 2,000 people, a seven-year-old girl lit a beacon of hope in Guiseley. Kerry Firm, who turned eight on January 1, lit the millennium beacon at Aireborough Leisure Centre after a flaming torch had been

carried through the community from an ecumenical service at the town's Cross. The event

co-ordinator, Graham Hoult, said: "Young Kerry is a symbol of our town's future and we felt it

appropriate that she should accept the light and carry its message of peace and hope into a new century." A ninety-two year old resident was also meant to receive the torch but was unwell on the night, but the watching crowds also saw a

fireworks display, supported by Greenwoods Menswear. Michael Williams, minister at the Methodist church, said: "We see this as a new beginning for the town and I have been heartened by the event's unifying quality." Simon Hammond, local Baptist Church pastor, said: "The spirit of working together and looking forward as a community has been given a massive boost." The town is now preparing for a special cultural festival in June and July. Pictured are some of the

revellers in Guiseley.

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