THE Daily Echo cracks open the archives and takes a look at a particular month from the past – May 2000.

Spectators waved Union flags as they wished Aurora well on her maiden journey from Southampton to the Mediterranean on May 1. The 76,152 tonne cruise ship was christened by Princess Anne in the city at a ceremony held on April 27.

Liberal Democrat candidate Sandra Gidley won the Romsey by-election on May 4. The by-election was held following the death of Conservative MP Michael Colvin in February 2000.

As well as all the events pictured taking place locally, this is what happened that month nationally:

May 1

Anti-capitalist protestors rioted in Central London. The Cenotaph in Whitehall and the statue of Winston Churchill were both defaced.

May 12

The Tate Modern art museum was opened to the public in London.

May 17

Royal Marines Alan Chambers and Charlie Paton become the first British people to reach the Geographic North Pole unaided.

May 20

Chelsea beat Aston Villa 1-0 in the FA Cup final at the old Wembley Stadium. It was the last FA Cup match played there.