PRESTON Council has launched an exciting package of events for 1996.

Next month marks the beginning of a colourful blend of ballets, egg rolling competitions, Caribbean carnivals, country dances and concerts.

And the events are set to keep tourists and locals amused until Christmas.

Preston will be joining the rest of the country to celebrate a hundred years of cinema at the Charter Theatre.

The Chinese State Circus will be back here in September for the first time since their successful visit in 1994 and Preston North End's football museum will be opening in May.

After music festivals, fairs and exhibitions the year will end with the usual dose of jolly festivities in the Christmas Parade, Torchlight procession as well as the Preston panto.

Brian Manning, Preston Borough Council's director of Leisure Services said he hoped the events will generate more outside interest in the town.

He said: "Over the years there's been a lot more street entertainment in Preston, particularly since Guild year in 1992 which is obviously free.

"With more people coming into the town it will also bring in more money."

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