A £6,000 grant has been approved by Knutsford Town Council for the Heritage Centre’s Canute Millennial plans.

The finance committee voted in favour of the grant at a meeting on Monday November 16, which will be given to the Heritage Centre from the 2016/2017 budget subject to a full breakdown of costs.

In its application the Heritage Centre explained that the grant will contribute to a ‘year-long programme of activities’ starting in spring 2016.

Organisers hope that the Canute Millennial celebrations will help to enhance Knutsford’s visitor economy and improve its profile as a destination for ‘shopping, dining and heritage appreciation.’ Val Bryant, Heritage Centre trustee and volunteer in charge of exhibitions and archives, said: “This grant will help us to move forward with the King Canute project and all the things we want to get on with.

“It will be a really super exhibition which will hopefully attract a wider audience into Knutsford. Also, with everything that will be going on in Knutsford, it will really benefit the town.

“The Heritage Centre is really pleased that the town council is supporting use in this way. It is brilliant for our visitors. It is going to be a really terrific year for everyone and if we bring visitors in everyone will benefit, the pubs, eating houses and shops; that’s what it’s all about.”

Although the events remain under wraps, two town councillors have commenced a working group with the Heritage Centre volunteers to establish the finer details.

Deputy Town Mayor, Cllr Jan Nicholson and Bexton ward councillor Christine Gray will begin the meetings in early December.

Cllr Nicholson said: “It is very exciting times ahead for both the Heritage Centre for the town in the millennial year of King Canute.

“The two councillors that have been chosen to work in the working group really looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead, getting things moving and the plans coming to fruition.

“We are very supportive of it coming to a wonderful conclusion.”

The Heritage Centre has revealed that it is currently in talks with the Jorvic Viking Centre in York in the hope of acquiring relics for a special display.

A document presented to the events committee in a previous meeting outlines proposals for a Danish Royal visit, a Viking boat race at Tatton Mere and an Abba tribute night.

For more information or to view the documents visit knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/council/agendas-minutes