Cardiff was granted city status by King Edward VII in 1905. Situated in South Wales and served by Cardiff International Airport (150 miles west of London), it is the home of Shirley Bassey and Charlotte Church. A European Centre for Cultural Excellence, the city is home to the National Museum of Wales, Museum of Welsh Life and the Millennium Stadium, scene of major soccer and rugby tournaments.

Two anniversaries "100 years as a city and 50 years as Wales" capital - mean 2005 will be a year of celebrations for Cardiff. A series of events and festivals are planned to mark the occasion, including:

The Royal Horticultural Society Spring Flower Show, Bute Park. (April 22-24, tickets £8, tel: 08700 667799, www.rhs.org.uk)

· The second Cardiff International Festival of Musical Theatre (April 1-17) including "Kiss Me Kate" at the new Wales Millennium Centre. www.cardiffmusicals.com.

· Cardiff Mardi Gras - Free gay and lesbian festival at Cardiff Castle with live music, cabaret and a dance tent. (September 4, 2-9 pm, see www.cardiffmardigras.co.uk.

Website: www.visitcardiff2005.co.uk