The 2008 programme - which gets under way next month - is packed with an exciting variety of events including music, sport, comedy, film and the famous lantern procession.

The theme this year is 'Think Green', which organisers hope will inspire many of the lantern makers taking part in workshops during the festival.

At least two sessions will be needed to complete a lantern, which can be carried in the procession on September 27, culminating with a firework display at Newtown Recreation Ground.

The first festival event will be the showing of a film noir classic at New Mills Town Hall on Saturday September 6.

A variety of events will be on offer on Saturday September 13, including a family fun day on Newtown Recreation Ground, followed by an X-factor style competition.

The Allotment Society will be hosting its popular open day, as will St James' Church and Arts Centre, along with a one-woman show 'Pretty Witty Nell' on the Saturday evening.

Providence United Reformed Church is hosting two events during the festival: a thanksgiving service (September 14) led by Tim Hawkins and an organ recital by BBC organist Gordon Stewart (September 26).

Other musical events include 'A Meditation on the Saints' at St George's Church (September 21), and closing the festival will be the High Peak Orchestra with Last Night of the Proms at New Mills Art Theatre (September 28).

St George's Church will be also be inviting people to the Friends of St George's inaugural General Meeting (September 21), and the Flower Festival (September 18 to 22), while Revival Church will be hosting New Mills' first International Film Festival.

A sports day at New Mills Cricket Club (September 14) will include a 20/20 cricket challenge match between New Mills and Hayfield.

New Mills Town Hall will host the popular Chrysanthemum and Dahlia show (September 27).

Wacky races will again take place in High Lea Park (September 21), and young people will be showing their musical talents at the High School Band Night (September 18).

People can also pit their wits at the Royal Oak's festival quiz night, join in the whist drive at New Mills Volunteer Centre or laugh their socks off at Chalker's Comedy Night.

And how about the local history talk 'Kinder Reservoir and Railway' at New Mills Town Hall, or 'Who Do I Think I Am?' at St James' Church and Arts Centre.

n For further details, call 01663 744907 or visit the Festival website www.newmillsfestival.com.