THE Spa's Millennium celebrations are set to go with a swing after organisers received a last-minute windfall.

Droitwich Spa Millennium Festival, set to run from July 6 to 16, has received a four-figure sum from the National Lottery Millennium Awards For All scheme.

The event is spearheaded by festival co-ordinator Councillor Pam Davey and Salters' Shopping Centre manager, Alison Alsbury.

The duo called on townsfolk and organisations to play their part in the celebrations which has a Bloom 2000 theme and includes several garden events.

These include gardeners' question time, a horticultural show and an arts in the garden project.

Groups and businesses have already come forward to fund and help run some of the activities but organisers say the grant will make a huge difference.

Alison said: "There are certain conditions which come with the grant and until we are clear how the money will be spent, the exact figure cannot be revealed.

"I can confirm it is a four-figure sum and has already enabled us to provide better facilities for the festival and to book professional entertainers for the toddlers' puppet show, the pensioners' tea party and the Spanish evening."

Cllr Pam Davey, who is leader of Droitwich Spa Town Council (Con, Droit.South), said: "I am delighted with the grant because, although we have received a great deal of support and encouragement, this will enable us to really give the event that extra sparkle."

Droitwich's Millennium celebrations begin on Thursday July 6 with a beer and wine festival at the Railway Inn, Kidderminster Road.

Cars from a bygone era and vintage tractors will be among a host of engines taking part in the Auto Classic Show organised by Droitwich Spa Association for Retail, Tourism and Services (DARTS) on Saturday July 8.

The Bloom 2000 theme will be reflected in a host of floral exhibitions in the town.

Tickets and programmes are available from Jan Bolton, at Executive Dry Cleaners, High Street, on (01905) 775852.