1999 - the very number has a distinctive ring to it, as if the year seems determined to be that bit different. And we don't mean just because it's the final step towards the New Millennium.

For most of us it's a time to hope that we can finally leave the momentous events of the 20th century behind and, possibly, look forward to enjoying a wiser and more peaceful new era.

In many ways 1998 seemed like an action replay of previous years, with Bill Clinton determined to beat Harry Houdini's record for surviving impossible situations, and Tony Blair realising that every Government seems destined to have skeletons in the cupboard. It was also no surprise to see Saddam Hussein once more in the headlines. Let's hope that 1999 sees him consigned to the history books, along with those other 20th century tyrants.

Locally, it was certainly a year of challenge and change. For example, the cheers over the announcements about the super new Middlebrook sports complex and the Moran painting triumph for Bolton contrasted with fears about the effect of the massive new Trafford Centre on shopping in places like Bolton and Bury. Hopefully, canny folk will continue to seek out the best buys and bargains right here.

So let's hope that the next 12 months are ones to remember for all the right reasons - and that this time next year those disturbing Millennium Bugs don't bite with a vengeance.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.