Preparations for the Millennium will take on a green theme at a special Otley fair to raise awareness of the environment.

Otley Green Fair '99 will be held on Saturday March 20, when campaigning groups and organisations will gather to look at how people can build a better world for the next 1,000 years.

Plans for the fair - to be held throughout the day in Otley Civic Centre - are gathering pace and organisers Karen and Mark Brockbank are keen to hear from any other groups who want to join the fun.

They said: "In one place will be gathered a wide cross-section of campaigning groups, alternative therapies, local interest groups and suppliers of green products, all sharing the belief that we can -and must - work together to give the world a future."

Entrance to the fair - which is non-profit making - is free. Any surplus made through the promotion of green issues in Wharfedale will be donated to suitable charities.

Mr Brockbank said: "The Green Fair has been held every two years, the last in March 1997. In previous years we have been able to contribute to tree-planting on the Chevin and rainforest preservation."

The whole of Otley Civic Centre has been booked for the day, with Otley Town Council supporting the event by waiving the standard charge.

It will be filled with stalls representing a range of environmental and campaign groups, a Health Matters section including workshops, and videos to allow visitors to take a breather.

A full programme of entertainment is also planned to keep children amused, including a puppet show, a juggling workshop and face painting.

Vegetarian food will be on offer throughout the day, provided by Otley's Curlew Cafe, and the fun will continue into the evening at the RAOB club, Westgate, where local band The Friendly Visit and cabaret from Pete Z, will take place from 8.30pm. Tickets will be available on the door.

For more information about Otley Green Fair '99, to offer help or book a stall, contact the organisers on (01943) 461751, or email mark.brockbank@bigfoot.com.

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