A group of local people have been meeting to discuss what can be done in the town next year to celebrate this major event, for which the government has announced there will be a double Bank Holiday on June 3 and 4 of 2002.
The conclusion is that the town can celebrate in style, with the main organised public events being concentrated on Monday, June 3.
The discussions to date have been managed by APMF coordinator Mike Baker, with input from town councillors and representatives from many local organisations.
Although there is much work to be done before details are released, it is proposed that the day should focus on three main events, a street festival in the High Street, a traditional fair in the Market Square and an all-day garden party in the Public Gardens.
Mike Baker said: ÒMany of the groups that have come forward have offered to organise something or help in some way towards a town-wide all day series of events on the Bank Holiday Monday. We are now trying to coordinate them into an exciting and attractive programme which will appeal to Altonians of all ages.
ÒWe would still welcome further ideas, suggestions and offers of help and support from groups have yet to be contacted, so please contact me via the Town Hall. In addition, we also want to hear from entertainers who could volunteer their talents for the day, and also other individuals who may wish to just lend a hand.
ÒWe very much believe that whatever happens, it is going to appeal to mainly local people, and that in the tradition of jubilee celebrations, it should be very much inspired, organised and provided by local people. We want this to be a truly community event for Alton.Ó