July's festival will be the biggest at the site since the 2000 Eisteddfod

The largest event since the National Eisteddfod is planned for the grounds on the town's foreshore this summer.

Festival Fields was built to stage concerts and exhibitions as part of the �31m Millennium Coastal Park project.

But since it hosted the Maes in August 2000 it has only been used for a handful of minor events.

That is set to change with a huge three-day festival in July.

There will be a programme of events for schoolchildren, teenagers and families.

'Tremendous location'

It is hoped thousands of visitors will attend.

Council chief executive Mark James said the event would promote Carmarthenshire as "a vibrant up-and-coming county".

"The 'Into the Future' event is part of the county council's commitment to providing more fun and leisure activities, particularly for young people," he said.

"We will be using the Millennium Coastal Park as a prime venue and also using the opportunity to promote local entertainers such as bands, vocalists and musicians in a tremendous location in front of a large audience."

The Millennium Coastal Park is seen as a prime venue

It will start with an education day for schoolchildren across Carmarthenshire with displays, activities and competitions on Friday 11 July.

Events on Saturday will be geared towards teenagers with sporting activities including the 24-mile Red Dragon Bike Ride, an outdoor battle of the bands concert and a headline group, who have yet to be confirmed.

Sunday will concentrate on family activities with a picnic on the prom, a DJ contest on Llanelli beach and rides and other attractions.

Organisers say they are confident it will be the biggest event in the town since the eisteddfod.

New road and car parking facilities have been added to Festival Fields and it is hoped July's extravaganza will be the first of many as the site is actively marketed.

The authority's executive board meets on Monday to discuss its financial contribution to the programme.

Other organisations involved include the Welsh Development Agency, Countryside Council for Wales and Environment Agency.

"There will also be an eco-fair to promote educational messages in a fun manner through various quizzes, tests, sports competitions and an evening music event," added Mr James.