Celebrations to mark the town’s 200th Birthday begin on New Year’s Day with the ‘Bicentenary Launch’ in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens. Events will continue throughout the year to celebrate Bournemouth’s distinguished past, with various sporting spectaculars, dance, music, and historical festivities, as well as literary, food and flower festivals.

Entertainment will be in the Lower Gardens between 3.55pm to 5.00pm, culminating with a fireworks show. Visit www.bournemouth2010.org.uk for more information.