Go Higher: The North - Events Diary 1999-2000

The North

STUDENT UNIONS are rarely able to confirm many events beyond the first couple of weeks of term, as serious booking doesn't start until the term proper begins, but there are a few big names pencilled in. Warrington's Freshers Fortnight's team are extremely keen to publicise its something- different-every-night list of events, which includes a hypnotist, and a bungee boxing night... oh, and racing toy pigs.

For information on the non-student events listed, contact your local tourist office.

AUTUMN

n Hull: 8-16 Oct, Hull Fair, traditional fairground and events.

n Newcastle: 10 Oct, Great North Run (half marathon).

n Chester College: 5 Nov, Guy Fawkes event.

n Newcastle: 5-20 Nov, Comedy Festival.

n Preston: Nov, University of Central Lancashire opens international- standard sports arena.

n Huddersfield: 17-28 Nov, Contemporary Music Festival.

SPRING

n Salford: Jan onwards. Opening of new waterfront complex, incl. National Centre for Virtual Reality.

n Merseyside: (tba) Opening of trans-Pennine trail for walkers and cyclists - linked routes joining Merseyside and Humberside.

n Cumbria: Feb to year end. Wordsworth Museum Exhibition, Grasmere.

n Manchester: 7-18 March, Irish fest.

n Manchester: March, Streets Ahead street theatre festival.

SUMMER

n Tyneside: 27-29 May, Window on the World music festival at North Shields.

n Newcastle: (tba) International Centre for Life. Opening of huge complex exploring, er, life.

n Merseyside: (tba) Opening of Chevasse Discovery Park, incl. entertainment, sunken gardens, new media.

Heather Welford