FROM the moment the first marching band struck up and the hooves of the shire horses rang out across the town, it was clear that torchlight traditions had survived into the new Millennium.

Children were hoisted onto shoulders, spectators crammed the pavements, and adults in fancy dress willingly made an exhibition of themselves, just as they have done for the past 31 years.

The theme of "Millennium 2000 - give or take a thousand years" threw up some imaginative interpretations such as the Celebrity's Choice, Noah's Rocket by Grayrigg Young Farmers Club.

Among the dignitaries outside Kendal Town Hall was Kendal Mayor Coun Tom Claire, who declared the procession to be "as good as ever".

"The organisers are to be congratulated for putting on such an amazing spectacle," he said.

Check this site for a special Torchlight report or get the Friday Westmorland Gazette for a full review.