THE television cameras may have concentrated on the big city spectaculars, but Wharfedale also entered the new millennium in style.

Hundreds of people turned out for a special multi-media presentation at All Saints Parish Church in Ilkley, followed by a bonfire and firework display. Guest of honour was the Bishop of Bradford, the Rt Rev David Smith.

At Burley-in-Wharfedale, £4,000 worth of fireworks lit up the night sky as thousands of people once again demonstrated the village's renowned community spirit.

Addingham villagers marked the millennium with a glass or two of mulled wine on top of Beamsley Beacon. More than 50 residents decided to welcome the dawn of a new century by getting in a little exercise while enjoying the celebrations of surrounding communities.

Addingham Civic Society member Don Barrett said: "Although it was rather murky right at the top, once we had come down a few hundred yards we were able to enjoy the fireworks. We had a particularly good view of the display put on at the Devonshire Arms."

Mr Barrett was delighted so many people had decided to join this unusual millennium celebration.

However, the millennium celebrations also allowed the opportunity for some serious fundraising. A couple of villagers raised about £300 for the George Street millennium project by agreeing to climb the Beacon in time to welcome the first sunrise of the new century.

Mr Barrett said: "It was a memorable occasion and one I'm sure we will all always remember.

Hundreds of revellers kept tradition going in Baildon by gathering on the village roundabout to see in the New Year amid a crescendo of fireworks.

A bonfire and fireworks display on the top of Otley Chevin could be seen for miles around.

Pubs throughout the area which opened their doors on Friday night did a roaring trade, with police reporting little trouble. Very few people ended up in the cells in Wharfedale and the injuries unit at Wharfedale General Hospital - which stayed open throughout the night - had a very quiet time.

l Millennium Night round-up - Pages 4 and 5. New-Year's Day splash - Page 14.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.