THE Forest of Rossendale which once filled the Valley with oak trees could be restored as part of the Millennium celebrations.

Planting 2,000 new trees is one of a range of ideas being considered by councillors as part of the Valley's contribution to the national festivities.

The scheme would cost about £10,000 - less if local volunteers lend a hand - but is seen as a lasting memento for future generations.

Councillors are meeting on Monday to draw up Millennium plans in advance of a regional meeting in Manchester later this month which will be attended by delegates from councils all over the North West.

Other proposals include a New Year spectacular at Marl Pits, featuring a laser show and firework display on the stroke of midnight, and special floral displays which would last the whole year in the Valley's towns and villages.

Local businesses would be asked to join in by planting their own grounds and forecourts and community groups would be asked to do the same in their neighbourhoods, with prizes for the best displays. The list of possible schemes has been drawn up by Borough Leisure officer Arthur Marriott.

His suggestions also include a special sculpture at the source of the River Irwell on Deerplay Moor.

The sculpture, celebrating the importance of the river in Rossendale's heritage, would tie in with the River Irwell Sculpture Trail and could be commissioned from Rawtenstall's German twin town, Bocholt, which donated the tree sculpture in the town centre.

The suggestion is that a German sculptor could work with local groups to produce designs for the new piece.

Grassed embankments in five locations within the borough could be marked with logos such as the coat of arms.

A historic re-enactment could see events which have occurred in Rossendale over the past 2000 years dramatised in one of the Valley's parks.

The final scheme is to encourage people to follow a healthier lifestyle by taking part in a fun run, a cycle event, an exercise challenge and a 25th birthday party for Ski Rossendale, which could include a world record ski-ing event on the dry runs.

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