Residents of Burley-in-Wharfedale have been told to 'think again' if they thought January 1 was the end of Millennium celebrations.

Although more than two years of preparation allowed the village's New Year's Eve celebrations to go with a bang, January 1 was not the end for the committee.

Committee member Tom Sumner said thoughts were already turning to the Burley Millennium Festival, to be held in the first week of July.

Mr Sumner has revealed an attempt to recreate the famous Burley Pudding will be made - albeit not a bid for the world record.

"We will be looking to recreate the pudding and make it an occasion to really remember," said Mr Sumner.

Far from being gripped by post-Millennium apathy, Mr Sumner is confident the village will be ready for a festival not to forget come July.

"The initial meeting we had to discuss the festival attracted more than 30 different organisations, and the committee was delighted with the response," he said.

Mr Sumner said the festival diary was already filling up fast but he would like to remind all those who have expressed an interest in taking part, that time is short.

"Already confirmed, as well as the Burley Pudding (a tradition which last took place in 1787, where a pudding was cooked in the village every seven years and then distributed to villagers) is a church flower festival and an open air service on the village green," said Mr Sumner.

Committee chairman John Sparshatt said: "Our aim is to make this celebration a memorable occasion."

Any Burley-in-Wharfedale organisations interested in taking part in the Burley Millennium Festival can contact Mr Sumner on (01943) 862940.

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