A huge blazing sculpture will mark the bicentenary of the Kennet and Avon Canal at Caen Hill, Devizes in two years time.

The canal, one of Britain’s most popular waterways, was completed at Caen Hill on December 28 1810, but British Waterways is already planning the party to celebrate the 200th anniversary.

The celebrations are being organised by British Waterways marketing and communications manager Susie Mercer.

She said: “The keynote event to mark the bicentenary will be a free, open-air party at the famous Caen Hill lock flight.

“This was the last part of the canal to be completed and the party will take place on the exact date of the bicentenary, December 28 2010.

“The centrepiece will be a fire sculpture created by Philip Bews and Diane Gorvin from the Forest of Dean, and are professional artists who specialise in sculpture for public spaces.”

The fire sculptures are works of art created out of waste wood and then set fire to.

Ms Mercer said: “The effect is breathtaking in its drama and impact.”

The party will also include live music, locally produced food and a range of drinks, including a special celebration beer being produced for the occasion by Devizes brewers Wadworth.

There is also a future scheme for 20 new interpretive panels at key locations along the canal.

Each will include a map, local historical information, an example of a plant, bird or animal that might be seen at the spot, a distance marker and a short, circular walk that takes in a village amenity or attraction.

The steering group organising the events is holding a meeting in the Corn Exchange on January 15 at 7pm.