A 21-FOOT illuminated tableau of Jesus Christ will be a centrepiece of Blackpool's special Millennium lights.

Resort churches across all denominations were asked how they would like to see the Millennium celebrated in the town's famous seafront illuminations - and the Christ-figure was the answer.

To be launched with a religious service on December 10 as part of Blackpool Council's special Year 2000 illuminations between central and north piers, the £10,000 tableau will start with a star falling to earth, lighting a globe from which the Christ image will burst into light, followed by the message: "Jesus - the Light of the World."

The churches are contributing substantially to the cost of the feature which will be resurrected each year for four years.

Father Denis Blackledge of the Sacred Heart RC Church in Talbot Square said: "I think it's fabulous.

"It'll be seen by an estimated 16 million people during the four years so it will be well worthwhile.

"I must say the way the council has handled this, inviting the Christian churches of all denominations to take part every step of the way, has been wonderful.

"I don't know of anywhere else in Lancashire where the co-operation's been so close."

Anglican diocesan spokesman the Rev Martin Halsall said: "The Christian churches greatly appreciate Blackpool's willingness to support this addition to their world-famous illuminations as the major symbol of what the Millennium is truly about."

Illuminations manager Keith Hall said: "The churches are over the moon about it and it has widespread support across the Fylde."

The Millennium illuminations will mark the culmination of Mr Hall's career - he retires at the end of the year after more than 30 years with the council, the last six in charge of the £2.4m-a-year lights spectacular.

New sections among the autumn illuminations to be switched on tomorrow night (September 3) include a Belt Up safety message, aimed at encouraging lights visitors to use their seatbelts.

Alien spaceships form new welcome arches at Starr Gate and Red Bank Road, while elegant Tiffany-style lights add a touch of art deco class from Gynn Square to Empress Drive.

Other new features are a hi-tech, micro-chip sea of light blanketing central promenade in front of the Tower, McDonalds' Fry-guys between Waterloo Road and Crystal Road, and new tableaux on a time theme, with hickory-dickory dock, the millennium countdown clock in Talbot Square, animated red Indians and for the toddlers, Noddy's back in town.

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