A MILLENNIUM project in Totton, dogged by a series of delays, is due to be opened within days.

More than £5,000 of public money has been spent on the New Forest. That's the name given to an unusual bench which will soon be available for shoppers who need to take the weight off their feet while out and about in Totton.

It was hoped that the seat would be opened in the summer but constant rain has disrupted the progress. The finishing touches will be added before the big day this week. Gold and silver leaves are expected to be added to make the tree appear to blossom all year around.

Designed by John Dawson, a Totton and Eling town councillor, the tree-trunk bench will be an eye-catching feature.

Mr Dawson said: "Many thanks must go to my colleagues on the town council for their support and to Colin Phillips who constructed this tree to mark the Millennium for Totton."

The tree trunk seat, made of iron, is round and has five trunks sprouting from its centre.

The bench will provide a convenient resting point for people around the civic centre. Residents from the town have welcomed the tree bench as a feature to brighten up the town.

Maureen Smith, from the Three Score Club, which overlooks the bench, said: "I think Totton needs brightening up a bit. When the fence around it comes down, I think people will notice it a bit more."

The actual unveiling day has yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to be sometime this week.