Millennium celebrations are coming to Batley with the opening of an enchanted forest and the burial of a time capsule.

The enchanted forest is a newly-developed area in woodland at Wilton Park featuring a mini-Stonehenge feature, fairy mounds, sculptured wooden animals and a painted labyrinth. The entrance to the enchanted woodland is through a willow tunnel leading to an area specially laid out for story-telling. It is planted with wildflowers and wind chimes are hung to create an 'enchanted' atmosphere.

The Mayor of Kirklees, Councillor Ann Denham, will open the event at 2.15pm on Sunday, September 3 with the planting of a willow tree to commemorate the Millennium. That will be followed by the opening of the enchanted forest. Other attractions include boating on the lake, stalls, a funfair, bouncy castle and pony rides, the Footloose cheerleaders and a classic car meeting together with animals from the Ponderosa Rural Therapeutic Centre. The Salvation Army Band will be playing during the afternoon and refreshments will be available.

l As part of the Millennium celebrations, individuals are being offered the chance to place a bench in Wilton Park in memory of loved ones or to recall happy memories. The cost of the bench is £200 plus £30 for an inscribed plaque.

Details are available from Brenda Swallow or John Teal at Wilton Park on (01924) 420225.