MORE than 1,500 schoolchildren and teachers from Hartlepool are making their way to London today to join in celebrations at the Millennium Dome.

At least 30 coaches and mini- buses set off at 6am this morning for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the youngsters.

All towns and cities throughout the UK have been given a chance to tell their story through music, drama, dance, poetry and song, and today is Hartlepool's turn.

Pupils from High Tunstall and Brierton Secondary Schools and youngsters from West View Primary School have worked in collaboration with Cleveland Theatre Company for a performance on the McDonald's Our Town stage before an international audience.

Other pupils will have the chance to see their artwork on display in the Dome, while youngsters from Henry Smith School will see a poster they created for the Faith Zone in the Dome. The poster reminds visitors of the life of Anne Frank and the importance of fighting against discrimination in society.

Teresa Whitfield, assistant director of education with Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "This is an exciting day for Hartlepool schools, as we see the culmination of a great deal of hard work by pupils and staff. Every school in Hartlepool has been involved in some way in the events leading up to this big day. It is spectacular that Hartlepool is being represented by so many people for the town's Day in the Dome."

Hartlepool people can view the millennium artwork at Hartlepool Art Gallery until July 30.