FIDEL Castro's Cuba and churches in Chepstow both have something in common – they intend to start celebrating the new millennium on December 31.
Pastor Michael Mortimer of Chepstow Baptist Church says: "The Rev Royston Govenor, current chairman of Churches Together, has always maintained that this is the last year of the second millennium.
"Fellow clerics have supported that view, so the official Chepstow Millennium Service is still to come."
And the churches intend to make the most of the occasion with all congregations combining forces for a special community service at 3pm at St Mary's Priory Church on the last Sunday of 2000.
"Most have cancelled evening services for maximum support," said Mr Mortimer.
"The Mayor and town councillors intend to be present together with representatives of every area of community life.
"This is a service for everyone and all will be welcome to celebrate the third millennium – which starts on January 1, 2001!"