York News for Travel Writers/Feature Editors – September 2006

 

Further Info & Photographs From: Kay Hyde, PR Manager or Sarah Lilleyman, PR Assistant, York Tourism Bureau. Tel 01904 554451/554436 Email: kh@york-tourism.co.uk  sl@york-tourism.co.uk

Would you like to visit York on a press trip? If you're interested in writing a travel feature about York we’d be delighted to hear from you. Looking for a different angle? Why not visit our website www.visityork.org/media click on themed fact sheets for ideas.

New Photography Holidays

Where better to learn the art of digital photography than in photogenic York? Professional photographer John Potter has launched (September 2006) a series of new digital photography courses based in the heart of the city. Tuition is on a one to one basis or visitors can come with a friend or partner. Guests meet on the evening of arrival to discuss the workshop and some basic landscape photography techniques. A digital slide show is then followed by discussion of work so far. Guests are invited to bring along pictures for analysis and feedback.

Day One - Full dawn to dusk workshop. Lunch and transport provided. Special interests catered for …for example - If you those particularly interested in Panoramic Photography can learn how to use a Pano Tripod Bracket to take fantastic Panoramas which are later stitched up in the computer.

Day Two - Explore the City of York with cameras visiting York Minster, the Museum Gardens, and the Shambles. Download images in the afternoon. For newcomers to digital imaging there’s a basic introduction into imaging software and basic manipulation techniques to improve and enhance images. More experienced photographers can have tuition in Photoshop Elements or Photoshop CS, to produce competition winning and/or exhibition quality.

Press Contact: Kay Hyde. For Bookings, please contact John Potter Photography - Tel: 01904 797222 Mobile 07899055890, visit www.jpotter-landscape-photographer.com or email j.s.potter@btinternet.com

Archers Star Launches New Audio Tour

The voice behind the Reverend Alan Franks, well known to BBC Radio 4 Archers fans has added his theatrical expertise to a brand new audio tour for historic York. Bristol based actor John Telfer, who plays the Reverend, has officially launched a new audio walking tour of York. Dr. Johnson’s Time Traveller is a new self guided audio tour which takes visitors along a narrated walking trail and transports them back in time. The brainchild of Bristol based entrepreneurs Chris and Kate Donnelly this new audio tour enables listeners to take in the sights and sounds of York through the ages as an impressive cast of actors including John Telfour, recount what it would have been like to live in the city centuries ago. The concept became possible due to the high volume of quality performers who took part including John along with award-winning English actress Stephanie Cole and with help from the sound production team from BBC’s Planet Earth.

Dr. Johnson’s Time Traveller is priced at £15.99 and is available to buy on CD from the Visitor Information Centre and other retailers or download from the Dr. Johnson website www.drjohnson.biz For more information, please call 01904 550099 or email tourism@yorkvic.co.uk

Two Thousand Years In a Two Mile Walk….York Launches New Interpretation For City Walls

The Most Intact Medieval Walls In England

A new 'interpretive' scheme for the most intact medieval walls in England was officially launched in August. Up until now many of the one million visitors to York’s historic walls may have visited without realising the national significance of the site.

Now, thanks to funding from Yorkshire Forward, new interpretative panels have been installed along the two mile route. And in addition to this a multi-media installation, created by York designer Jo Cutting, has been installed inside Bootham Bar taking visitors on a race around the walls. Situated at sixteen key points, including Micklegate Bar, Lendal Tower and Walmgate Bar the panels are constructed in vitreous enamel and stainless steel. This new £174,000 scheme is aimed at encouraging visitors to walk the full length of the city walls. And in addition to the panels twelve plaques of stone and metal, designed by sculptors, have been inserted into the wall walk around the city with brass pavement markers also making it easier for visitors to navigate the walls circuit.

Other phases of the project include a £35,000 programme of cleaning and repairs and new self-closing gates for Bootham Bar, designed by internationally renowned blacksmith Chris Topp. Press Contact: Kay Hyde.

Tomlinson’s Antiques

Tomlinson’s Antiques has become Yorkshire’s latest tourist attraction. The antique warehouse based between York and Wetherby has been awarded the prestigious quality rose by the English Tourist Board making it one of 600 quality assessed visitor attractions across England.

The enormous warehouse between York and Wetherby houses Europe’s largest antiques company, with thousands of fascinating items displayed in a stunning environment. Until now, it has been one of the area’s best-kept secrets, largely because of its rural location. Antiques are brought to life through room sets allowing visitors to walk through a Georgian bedroom, Edwardian parlour or Art Deco living room. But unlike a museum, the furniture on show can be bought and taken home.

For those keen to learn more about furniture design through the ages, the company’s experts are on hand to guide visitors through the eras and explain how Edwardian furniture design evolved into the Arts and Crafts movement. Tomlinsons craftsmen, who are permanently on site to restore furniture, can also provide behind the scenes knowledge about furniture restoration, giving unique insights into the likes of French polishing, spraying, desk leathering and the art of gilding.

Tomlinsons is a unique business based in the heart of Yorkshire that attracts customers not only from south of England but also Europe and the rest of the world. Not only is Tomlinson’s now Europe’s largest antiques warehouse but they have also been named ‘one of the great days out in Yorkshire’ by Sir Thomas Ingilby, the Chairman of Yorkshire’s Great Houses, Castles and Gardens.

For more details on Tomlinsons visit www.antique-furniture.co.uk For further details contact Stefanie Riese-McCartney on 0113 290 4270 or email stefanier@jdapr.co.uk

Tomlinsons has been established for over 25 years, and is now the leading British supplier of antique furniture to the UK and overseas trade. The company offers antique and traditional furnishings to traders and the public. More than 2,000 items are brought into the warehouse each month and 5,000 items are in stock at any one time. Images of Tomlinsons fine furniture are available from Stefanie Riese-McCartney on 0113 290 4270 or stefanier@jdapr.co.uk

Bollywood Falls Head Over Heels For Yorkshire

Yorkshire has been chosen as the host region for Bollywood’s equivalent of the Oscars – the International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) Weekend 2007. The bid by Yorkshire Tourist Board beat off stiff competition from worldwide destinations including New York. The IIFA were extremely impressed by the region’s gorgeous countryside, sense of history, warm welcome and the commitment of the five cities involved: York, Leeds, Hull, Bradford and Sheffield. For four days in June 2007, Yorkshire will be home to the brightest stars in Bollywood, most of whom have more fans than your average A-list Hollywood star. Press Contact: Kay Hyde.

Best City Destination for Coach and Group Travellers..

York has been voted Coach Tourism City of the Year by Coach Monthly Magazine. With 10,000 votes cast by coach driver club members and UK coach operators, York beat off stiff competition from London and Blackpool, who were also shortlisted in this category. Mark Barton, editor of Coach Monthly, said: “My warmest congratulations to York in winning the first ever Coach Tourism Town/City of the Year Award. It is really pleasing to see such a major historic destination as York to not only recognise the value of coach tourism, but go out of its way to attract more high spending visitors by coach. Other UK towns and cities, please take note!”

And in October York was named ‘Most Group Friendly’ destination by readers of Group Leisure magazine beating off competition from London, Birmingham and Bristol. Press Contact: Kay Hyde

Yorkie Bars

Microsoft Windows Live Local voted York the liveliest nightlife city in the UK with more nightlife venues per square mile than any other UK city.

Winter Promotions

Stay Longer ……Stay for three nights and pay for only two!

This special promotion runs from 1 November until 31 March 2007. Visitors can choose from over forty guest houses and hotels in historic York. Prices start at £52 per person for a three night stay staying at a three diamond guest house up to £160 for a three or four star hotel. Self catering options are also available. For further information, contact York Visitor Information Centre on 01904 550088, quoting “Stay Longer” when booking or book online at www.visityork.org . Offer is subject to availability. Stay longer guests can also buy a three day York Pass for the price of a two day pass for £25 – a saving of £7. Press Contact: Kay Hyde.

A Reminder of York’s Main News For 2006……

Yorkshire Wheel Success

In Spring 2006 The National Railway Museum became home to the Yorkshire Wheel. The London-eye style observation wheel soars sixty metres above the city and offers stunning views for up to 20 miles. Comprising 43 climate-controlled capsules for 8 people, the wheel is now the second tallest structure in York, standing just ten metres below the Minster’s famous Lantern Tower and offering extensive views of the Vale of York. The Yorkshire Wheel provides visitors with a unique view of the medieval city and its river and has already attracted over 33,000 visitors since its opening. York Minster forms a backdrop and Thomas Prosser’s magnificent station roof can be seen from a new angle. Beyond the City, the Wheel gives views of York’s setting, from the Pennines to the Yorkshire Wolds. The Wheel is already proving to be a huge success with visitors and is expected to bring up to a million new visitors to the city from across the UK and abroad over the next three years. Press Contact: Toby Wardman Tel: 01904 686281 Public Contact: Tel: 01904 621621 or visit www.nrm.org.uk

Dig! makes history with Millennium Backing

Dig, the newest addition to York’s visitor attractions, opened on March 24th, offering a unique and exciting archaeological experience. St Saviours Church (formerly the Archaeological Resource Centre), has been transformed into a simulated archaeological investigation including site huts, a science laboratory and research library. Visitors can try their hand at excavating parts of a Roman fortress, Viking City, Medieval burial site and Victorian workers cottages. Real and simulated artefacts from Roman times to Victorian are used to turn visitors into archaeologists for the day. Once an interesting object has been uncovered, visitors go to work to find out what they can discover about life in the past from their artefacts. Visit www.yorkarchaeology.co.uk Press Contact: Kay Hyde, PR Manager, York Tourism Bureau. Tel: 01904 554436 Email: kh@york-tourism.co.uk

York Castle Museum’s Kirkgate Face Lift

The most spectacular recreated Victorian street in the country has become even better thanks to a huge makeover. Kirkgate, the stunning Victorian street at the heart of the York Castle Museum, has thrilled millions of visitors with its life like scenes and atmosphere of days gone by. But the best of its kind has just set a new standard with a series of improvements costing hundreds of thousands of pounds. With the new heading ‘You Have Seen The Street, Now Meet The People’, Kirkgate now offers an exciting insight into the life and times of Victorian citizens.

Visitors can now explore for themselves some of the shops and businesses, such as the police station, bank and cells. And for the first time Kirkgate has a night and day, with superb lighting and audio effects creating the illusion of passing time. Behind the scenes rooms have been magically transformed into new areas, such as the authentic Victorian classroom. Kirkgate also now has its own newspaper, The Kirkgate Examiner, full of scoops on the personalities and issues of the street. There’s also be a through the key hole experience, where you can see a hi tech depiction of the drama of a Victorian pawn brokers. Opened 8th April 2006, Kirkgate now has new faces, sounds and sights for 21st century visitors to enjoy. Public Contact: Tel: 01904 687687, Email: castle.museum@ymt.org.uk or visit www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk Press Contact: Lee Clark, York Museums Trust. Tel: 01904 687670 Email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk

Cold War Relic Opened to the Public

In May York’s restored Cold War Bunker opened to the public. Visitors can now take a guided tour of a semi-submerged secret bunker on the outskirts of York. At the height of the Cold War, Britain had a total of 1,561 nuclear shelters, designed to withstand severe bombardment. The shelter was one of the best surviving examples of its type in the UK, and the first to be designated a Scheduled Monument. Now, complete with original fixtures and fittings, visitors can experience an atmosphere as authentic as that found in films such as the Ipcress File or the TV serial Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. 2006 visits to the Bunker will be by pre-booked guided tour only.

Now the spine-chilling 1960s secret bunker, complete with decontamination rooms, dormitory and sewage ejector, is to remain a secret no longer with new opening times for the 2007 season.

· April – October, weekends 10 – 4, tours every half-hour

· November – March, 1st & 3rd weekend of the month, 10 – 4, tours every half-hour

NO NEED TO PRE-BOOK! - Weekdays between April & October still by appointment! Call Clifford’s Tower on 01904 646940 for more details.

For more information Tel: 01904 601901 or visit www.English-heritage.org.uk Press Contact: Nicola Bexon, Email: Nicola.Bexon@english-heritage.org.uk

New Artefacts Alive Gallery at JORVIK

The artefacts Gallery at JORVIK currently contains over 400 Viking Age artefacts discovered during the famous Coppergate dig in York. Visitor feedback has shown that the objects were not well understood therefore a series of new installations aims to enhance the display which opened in January to the public.

The project, “Artefacts Alive”, consists of the creation of six new interactive multimedia installations and four talking “Viking Ghosts” which have been installed in the Artefacts Gallery to explain the displays. The interactive multi-media installations use 3 dimensional modelling, video excerpts, text, and accessible games, to describe the techniques of archaeological discovery, for example: methods of conservation and research. Viking inventions are also explored contrasting them with modern day technologies; as well as the Viking use of medicine, diet, crafting techniques and Viking navigational methods. All six installations use “Find Out More” screens that allow visitors to find out more in depth information about the work of the York Archaeological Trust. Public Contact: 01904 543403 Press Contact: Emma Hunt, Tel: 01904 543413 or email: ehunt@yorkarchaeology.co.uk . Visit www.jorvik.co.uk

New Restaurants

J Baker's Bistro Moderne

Critically acclaimed Michelin Star chef Jeff Baker finally decided to go it alone following a fantastic ten years spent cooking at Pool Court in Leeds city centre. Jeff, one of only a handful of chefs that have held and retained a Michelin Star for ten years back to back, has now launched J Baker’s of York. The Bistro Moderne brings you a whole new dining experience. One which is ‘less exclusive and more inclusive’. J Baker’s is a contemporary modern bistro with a cosy, informal atmosphere in the centre of historic York. The food is simple but bold, familiar yet new. Guests can relax in the daytime as they casually pick and choose creations from the grazing menu and set the tempo; long and lasting or fast and snappy. In the evening, intimate or social, the fixed price à la carte menu has everything to offer. Every dish served brings you the very best produce from the greatest Yorkshire suppliers. For more information Tel: 01904 622688, email: info@jbakers.co.uk or visit www.jbakers.co.uk

Exhibitions

Let the Art Do The Talking

The Art of Conversation, York Art Gallery October 7 2006 – January 15 2007

Major loans together with works from York Art Gallery’s enviable collection will make up this Autumn’s new exhibition The Art of Conversation. The exhibition will combine 18th Century decorative and fine art as well as costumes of the period in what will be arguably the most comprehensive collection of conversation pieces in the country.

Gainsborough, Stubbs and Devis are all included in the exhibition which compliments a conference at York University entitled: Making Faces: New Approaches to Georgian Portraiture. The exhibition brings together a strong collection of fine and decorative art from the period and some excellent loans from across the country, including the National Portrait Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery and a Devis from the Harris Museum and Art Gallery in Preston. As well as the conversation pieces themselves, the exhibition will look at the etiquette and rules associated with conversation in the period, giving a fascinating glimpse into the social issues captured in the paintings. Beautiful women’s costumes, giving a flavour of those in the paintings, have also been borrowed from the York Castle Museum and will be on display.

York has a strong Georgian heritage and saw both social and cultural growth during the period. It was a place frequented by the Gentry and aristocracy who came here to socialize, flirt, clinch a marriage and partake of entertainments – the Races, Theatre, dancing, tea drinking and watching public hangings. Many fascinating buildings were built in the period, such as the Assembly Rooms, Fairfax House and Assize Courts.

The exhibition will run from October 7 2006 until January 15 2007. The York University conference is taking place and November 17 and 18 and people can buy tickets by phoning: 02073122417 or emailing education@npg.org.uk

Press Contact: Lee Clark Tel 01904 687673.

Spotlight on 18th Century Glass

Yorkshire collector John Butler, has left York Civic Trust his entire collection of over 400 examples of 18th century glass, which will be on display at Fairfax House until December 31. Valued at over £300,000, this is the most important acquisition of decorative art made by the museum in recent years.

Visitors to Fairfax House during the 2006 season will have the opportunity to view half of this incredible collection and those intended for the Dessert are the highlight of the show. The collection will be toured to other museums in the South and South West during 2007/8.

Teresa Fazio-Gannon, co-curator of the exhibition, feels privileged to have known John Butler and to be organising a display of his glass, his life-long passion. “He was a true collector in every sense of the word”, she says, “he admitted quite happily to having this incurable obsession for collecting. If he saw a rare example with perhaps only minor variations to those already in his collection he had to acquire it for study purposes.”

To mark this important acquisition, Fairfax House will be running a series of special glass tours during 2006. For more press information or photographs, please telephone 01904 655543, email peterbrown@fairfaxhouse.co.uk visit www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk

The Flying Scotsman…

In 2006 the National Railway Museum launched its new permanent exhibition dedicated to the legendary steam locomotive, Flying Scotsman.. The £700,000 exhibition backed by Yorkshire Forward and the Heritage Lottery Fund, called The Flying Scotsman Story, opened at Easter 2006. The permanent new exhibition tells the remarkable story behind the world’s most famous steam locomotive and the prestigious East Coast rail service that made its name. It also traces Flying Scotsman’s extraordinary journeys to the USA and Australia, as well as tackling the biggest question of all…just why is the vintage locomotive so famous? Other key features of the new display include:

· Personal stories of the people intimately linked with the locomotive and service - from passengers and crews to owners and admirers.

· Visual access to the behind the scenes world of NRM locomotive preparation prior to operating on the main line.

· A sought-after glimpse into Flying Scotsman’s footplate when it is on display within the exhibition.

· Guest appearances by other famous locomotives and engines from the route of the Flying Scotsman and held in the national collection.

· A 1930s buffet car illustrating the story of the dining experience for passengers travelling on the Flying Scotsman service over the last 70 years.

· Rare film footage along the Flying Scotsman route and from all the periods of the locomotive’s life. Press Contact: Toby Wardman Tel: 01904 686281, Public Contact: Tel: 01904 621621 or visit www.nrm.org.uk

Japanese Art In Life

York Art Gallery – September 9 2006 until February 4 2007

Beautiful prints and ceramics embracing the traditions of Japanese life will go on show at York Art Gallery for the first time ever this September. Nineteenth Century ukiyo-e prints and 20th Century studio ceramics by some of the best artists of the era have been chosen to reflect the Japanese way of life. These hidden gems of the gallery’s collection will be included in a public exhibition for the first time and look at the notion that beauty is influenced by nature and traditional poetry. Highlights of the exhibition include works by Shoji Hamada, perhaps Japan’s most famous potter, and Katsue Ibata who became well known for creating pots in a fun way, such as while listening to music and wearing a cat suit. Work by one of the best known ukiyo-e artists, Ando Hiroshige, will also be on show. The exhibition is kindly supported by the Daiwa Anglo-Japanese Foundation and the Japanese Print Shop, York. York Art Gallery re-opened in March 2005 after a nine-month, £445,000 refurbishment. Press Contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, York Museums Trust, Telephone 01904 687673, or e-mail lee.clark@ymt.org.uk

Hotel News…..

From Hogwarts To York

A touch of magic has descended on York and Marmadukes, one of the City’s luxury hotels. Warner Brothers prop maker Jonathan Tebbs was secretly commissioned by hotelier Emma Watkins in the autumn of 2005 to produce a fleet of handmade beds for her new twenty two room boutique hotel in York which opened in June. Emma said “The beds that Jonathan made for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire were beautiful. We wanted something special and he has created a range of individual beds in brass and iron, some restored from mid Victorian times, with fabulously comfortable mattresses. We’re not Hogwarts but it is different to sleep in a bed that was made by the man who made Harry Potter’s bed. Emma has also announced that their new restaurant Hartville’s will be opening on Fossgate this Autumn.

Press Contact: Kay Hyde

Fly into Middlethorpe

Middlethorpe Hall and Spa is offering executives the chance to arrive in style: by helicopter. The country house recommends LNT Aviation based at Leeds Bradford for an executive helicopter service to and from the hotel. Press Contact: Kay Hyde

The Grange Hotel

The award-winning Grange Hotel in Bootham, York has once again achieved the AA’s high standards for food and service by receiving the coveted 2-rosette classification for its new Ivy Brasserie, which replaces the formal fine dining Ivy Restaurant that held the same award for eight consecutive years.

The New Face of the Bar Convent

Forget what you have ever imagined life in a Catholic convent would be like! For the un-con-vent-ional living in York’s Bar Convent abandons all your preconceptions. Being the oldest working convent in England, the Bar Convent has nowadays rather turned into a thriving business which meets the needs of the weary traveller. The face of the Grade 1 listed Georgian building has had a facelift this summer. The Bar Convent has provided hospitality to thousands during its 300 year history. The renovation includes its 300 year old slate roof and the restoration of all 150 of its original sash windows. Not only that but the internal areas of the convent are also benefiting from some cosmetic enhancements, including new chairs and soft furnishings in the meeting rooms and furnishings and redecoration in the Guest House. All of this means better comfort and better value for customers. For a holiday with a difference why not book in to the oldest working convent in England. Press Contact: Kay Hyde or visit www.bar-convent.org.uk

Coming Up

Yuletide York – November and December

Over the Yuletide period, the city’s central square will become animated with a range of specialist market stalls . The city presents a Children’s Christmas Fayre (17-19 November) to launch the celebrations and the popular St Nicholas Fayre from 23 - 26 November includes an array of markets across the city featuring gifts and crafts as well as the very best in local farm produce. A pre-Christmas leaflet is now available from the Visitor Information Centres. Press Contact:: Kay Hyde.

York Early Music Christmas Festival – 7- 10th December

The tenth York Early Music Christmas Festival will run from Thursday 7 to Monday 11 December and promises a suitably festive mix of candlelit concerts, illustrated talks and educational workshops presented in some of the City of York’s finest medieval Churches. Guest artists in this anniversary year include Gothic Voices [Chapter House, York Minster Thurs 7 Dec]; the European Union Baroque Orchestra [University of York Fri 8 Dec] and The Tallis Scholars [St Michael le Belfrey Church Monday 11 Dec]. For further information and tickets from the National Centre for Early Music. Tel 09104 658338 email boxoffice@ncem.co.uk or visit www.ncem.co.uk

New York Pass

New additions to the York Pass this year include York Castle Museum, York Riverboat Cruises and the Black Sheep Brewery. York Pass sales are up more than 69% on the same period last year making the pass one of the UK’s biggest and most successful visitor attractions passes available. And sales continue to grow through an improved distribution network which includes Visitor Information Centres, www.yorkpass.com, selected York hotels as well as tour operators/agents such as BritRail, Visit Britain, OAD Reizen, Miki Travel, TourKits, 365tickets.com, Groundline and Highlife Breaks.

Looking Ahead To 2007

NRM’s Giants of Steam

Giants of the steam age will be thundering across the English countryside again in 2007 as the National Railway Museum (the biggest railway museum in the world) plans to expand its rail operations. Three of its biggest icons will be brought together for an extended range of rail excursions called Giants of Steam.

2006 excursions included summer steam excursions between York and Scarborough, the beautiful Settle to Carlisle line, and York to London Kings Cross. With the help of the 5305 Locomotive Association and the Eastleigh Railway Preservation Society, the NRM ran services with Green Arrow, Sir Lamiel and Lord Nelson. Destinations and engines for 2007 are to be confirmed and will run throughout July and August. For more information visit www.nrm.org.uk or call the information line on 0870 421 4472.

Press Contact: Toby Wardman Tel: 01904 686271/281

2007 – The Bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade (1807-2007)

The 200th anniversary of the abolition of the Slave Trade in the British Empire in 2007 is a significant event, providing a unique opportunity to reflect and learn from the past and to work together towards a better future.

Planning is still in progress for a series of events happening in historic York to mark this anniversary.

A new exhibition will be launched at York Castle Museum in March titled ‘Unfair Trade’.

York Castle Museum is famous for its collections of costumes, and military and social history, with over 100,000 items to show. The collection of this museum was the brainchild of John Kirk, a country doctor and antiquarian, who between 1890 and 1920 rescued a variety of everyday items he realised were part of a vanishing way of life.

In 1935, his collection was donated to the City of York. Everything you see is real; no item is replicated or fabricated. Many exhibits are displayed in a reconstructed Victorian ‘street’ where you can wander in and out of workshops, where saddlers, weavers and candle-makers plied their trade. The museum also contains a series of period rooms that reveal domestic interiors from various times, Jacobean, Georgian and Victorian.

And also in March York Theatre Royal and Riding Lights Theatre Company are collaborating to mark the 200th anniversary with a production of African Snow, a new play by Murray Watts.

The play was originally commissioned and is being supported by the Church Mission Society, founded in 1799 by representatives of the abolitionist movement, including William Wilberforce. It will premiere at York Theatre Royal from 30 March-21 April and will then embark on a national tour.

The play will be a major artistic contribution to the range of cultural, media and educational events being planned throughout the UK next year to commemorate this significant bicentenary.

African Snow is the meeting of two men - cast from opposite sides into the hell of the slave trade. An African stolen from his home in West Africa and an English sailor. Both survived to write remarkable accounts of their experiences and both were urged by William Wilberforce to testify before parliament in the eighteenth century campaign for abolition. African Snow takes us to the heart of the human condition to the place where two men are compelled to confront each another.

Far more than a commemorative piece, African Snow tells its story from a black perspective, through material drawn from Equiano’s autobiography published in 1769. It asks its audiences to examine their own relationships in the world. Whether we focus on sweatshop labour in developing nations, sex trafficking in Europe or race relations at home, the challenge to move from guilt or oppression, to forgiveness and reconciliation is always a contemporary one. Directed by Riding Lights’ Artistic Director, Paul Burbridge with design by Sean Cavanagh and featuring original music composed for the production, African Snow is the first ever collaboration between the York based national touring theatre company Riding Lights and York Theatre Royal.

‘Here's a play that turns bygone history into a pulsating human story. It could be yours. It could be mine. We begin to understand the past when we recognise that it is about real human beings like us. That way we better understand not only where we have come from but what we are doing now and where we are heading.’ - Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York

An exhibition at the Yorkshire Air Museum to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Falklands War.

The Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial will be launching a new Exhibition to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Falklands War in April 2007. Amongst the museum's extensive aircraft collection is Victor K2 Tanker XL231, which saw actual service in a refuelling role in support of Operation Black Buck, the Vulcan raid on Port Stanley. There will also be an example of the Hawker Harrier GR3 and 10 Harriers from 1 Squadron RAF Wittering operated in support of the Royal Navy Sea Harriers. 3 of these were lost in action. Blackburn Buccaneer S.2B XX901 saw Falklands service in a defensive role after the crisis in 1983.

Canberra and Mirage aircraft similar to those used by the Argentinians are also among the museum's collection and another fascinating exhibit is the Tiger Cat Missile System captured from the Argentinians by troops from the R.A.F. Regiment and subsequently used against the invading forces! This weapons system was developed in Britain and exported to a number of nations, including Argentina prior to the conflict.

The exhibition will open in April 2007 and run until the end of October. An official ceremony is likely to be on the 5th April (to be confirmed), which will include well-known veterans and R.A.F. particpation with flypasts and fly-ins of helicopters.

For further media information, please contact Ian Richardson, Public Relations Manager, Yorkshire Air Museum. 01904 608718 Mob: 07740 992 832 or email pr@yorkshiremuseum.co.uk

Spotlight On…..

Food and Drink in York and Yorkshire

Yorkshire is the largest county in England; it has diverse countryside and farming environments and provides a rich array of the highest quality produce. Much of this produce is unseen by the general public and never reaches the supermarkets.

Within ten minutes of leaving York city centre you can be in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside which means it is unsurprising that there are a multitude of farmers in the area willing to diversify. From the largest maize maze to luxury puddings, you can buy their wares at local Farmers Markets, or online or direct from farm shops. Farm shopping is a different experience to any other form of retailing. It is not like a supermarket or corner shop. Most of what is sold will be grown on the site, harvested daily, and sold in the freshest condition. Everything will follow the seasons. York’s annual markets programme is growing year on year so both visitors and residents have the chance to buy regional produce direct from the producers and more of more of the city’s restaurants are committed to sourcing the majority of their produce from local suppliers……..here’s just a taste…..

Bob Hirst, Yorkshire Honey, Bishopthorpe, York: Bob Hirst produces honeybee products in his own apiary. Hives are distributed in the local countryside to gather nectar from both the agricultural crops and the wild flowers that abound in the vale of York….

J A Mounfield & Son, Bubwith, North Yorkshire: This family business is over one hundred years old and this is their fifth generation. All stock is bought locally and slaughtered in their own abattoir. They sell good local meat and pork pies are their speciality. Supreme Yorkshire champions, area winners, various awards with sausages made on the premises. …..supply daily to local shops…..

J H & M Burton..Wilberfoss, East Yorkshire: “Straight from our field to your plate” – the Burton family has been farming at Wilberfoss for more than a century and today Grant and Mark Burton are the fourth generation in the business. The Burton’s herd of outdoor pigs are kept in welfare friendly conditions with plenty of space and freedom to roam, root and wallow and are fed a balanced diet of high quality non-genetically modified feed. Manor House Farm’s speciality is their range of gourmet sausages, handmade using the best cuts of pork and quality ingredients.

J Stringer & Sons, Bishop Wilton, York: J Stringer & Sons is a family business that has been farming on the Yorkshire Wolds for over 50 years. In 1999 they converted a large proportion of their land to organic farming and today, all their land is fully converted to organic production. They were the first farmers to grow certified seed potatoes on the Yorkshire Wolds and now produce a range of seed potatoes to suit both farmer, grower and gardener, choosing varieties that have good flavour, low susceptibility to disease and keep well.

Scotts Butchers, York: Scotts Butchers was originally a family owned business and run business by three generations of the Scott’s family. It is now owned by Stephen Bailey, but tradition still remains. They are traditionally known for their cured hams (York Ham) and bacons and also sell a wide variety of meats and meat products. Their ham is cured in the traditional way and rustic hams are available in joints from 1kg to 22½ kg. A wide variety of sausages is also available, from the traditional pork sausage to more creative flavours such as Pork & Leek, Royal County, Tomato & Onion, Greek Lamb, Cumberland, Farm House and Pork & Stilton.

York Brewery - Micklegate, York. Established in 1996, York Brewery is both a visitor attraction and a working brewery, providing customers with the first traditionally brewed ales from within the walls of York for over 40 years. Take a tour of York’s award-winning independent brewery, to see each stage of the brewing process, from a specially constructed viewing gallery. The daily guided tours include generous beer sampling – including Stonewall, Centurian Ghost and the stronger Yorkshire Terrier – the Brewery Shop stocks the ales and other high quality brewery merchandise. The 100 capacity brewery bar is open after the tours to whet your whistle.

The Balloon Tree Farmshop and Café..Gate Helmsley:

This farm shop and café business started mainly on the principle of trying to produce and sell the freshest produce, and in most cases all the food miles have been eliminated by growing and rearing on site. They also specialise in the production of Long Horn Cattle, matured for 3 weeks, and rare breed pigs, as well as fresh poultry and free range eggs. An extensive vegetable range complements this and in many cases, two varieties of a vegetable are grown to provide choice. For those with a sweet tooth, raspberries, strawberries, gooseberries, red, white and blackcurrants and blueberries are also for sale. As well as all the produce grown on site, there is also a wide range of other products from around Yorkshire including locally produced meats and cheese, cakes and confectionery, ice cream and fresh sauces.

Castle Howard Farm Shop…15 miles north east of York :

Two of the latest additions to the 18th century Stable courtyard at Castle Howard are their new farm shop and café. Produce from the estate and surrounding region is showcased and the local community and visitors are encouraged to use them. The focal point is a traditional butcher’s counter offering Estate organic Aberdeen Angus Beef, Lamb and Game, while frequent food sampling tempts visitors to the delicatessen counter offering cheese, pate, and cooked meats. Other produce that will be available at the farm shop will include: seasonal fruit and vegetables; fresh bread; diary produce; everyday grocery products; wine and beer, plus a range of speciality beverages and gifts.

York Farmers Market

York Auction Centre, Murton, York – 9am to 1pm: The York Farmers Market at Murton was one of the first to be established in the north of England, with the first market being held in September 1999. Since then, it has continued to grow and prosper. Held on the first and third Saturday of the month all year round, this indoor market attracts the best local producers selling their own high quality and wide range of fresh produce direct to the customer. The market supports local business and communities within a 30-mile radius of York, reduces transport, food miles and packaging and aims to improve diet and nutrition through access to fresh food with knowledge of how it was produced, grown or fed. The stall holders are more than happy to tell you where and how their products are produced or farmed. There are also special offers and promotions and a prize draw for a farmers market produce hamper. As one of the largest and leading markets, there is always a huge range of local produce on offer – from prime Yorkshire beef and free range eggs to luxury puddings and mohair socks there truly is something for all tastes. For further information, Tel: 01904 489731 or visit www.ylc.co.uk/farmermkt

Cookery Schools

Cookery at Hazlewood Castle: Treat yourself to a luxurious break at Hazlewood Castle with cookery Masterclasses by superchef John Benson-Smith, 1999 Northern Chef of the Year, BBC Mastechef judge and one of Loyd Grossman’s six top UK chefs. With a maximum of just 8 people in the class, informative tutorial and hands-on cooking in Hazlewood Castle’s kitchens, you can really get to grips with new skills and new ideas. To get you in the mood, the class begins with a two-course luncheon and champagne, naturally! The course, including lunch, costs £65 per person, and special room rates in this lovely hotel are offered to attendees. Dates for 2006 are: 24,25,26 Jan; 13,14,15,16,20,21,22 Feb; 20,21,22,23 March; 3,4,5,6 April; 1,2,3,4 May. For more details call: 01937 535353 or visit www.hazelwood-castle.co.uk or www.cookery-masterclass.co.uk

Betty’s Cookery School:

No visit to York is complete without calling at Betty’s Tearooms in St Helen’s Square. Choose from an exclusive range of teas and coffees, all-day breakfast (but this is no greasy spoon!), lunch or something wicked from the cake trolley. Once experienced, forever smitten! And chocoholics beware – you’ll never get past the display of handmade chocolates on the way out without succumbing to temptation.

Betty’s also offers 1-day cookery courses, covering a wide variety of subjects from breadmaking to family meals to advanced chocolate techniques. Most courses take place at weekends, and even teenagers can learn cook during school holidays. Classes are given by Betty’s own master bakers next to the craft bakery in Harrogate. For course details call Betty’s Cookery School on 01423 814016 or visit : www.bettysandtaylors.co.uk

For any further information and your free guide to York, please contact: York Visitor Information Centre, Tel: 01904 550099, email: info@visityork.org or visit www.visityork.org

Press contact: Kay Hyde PR Manager – First Stop York tourism partnership, York Tourism Bureau, Tel: 01904 554451, Fax: 01904 554460, email: kh@york-tourism.co.uk or visit www.visityork.org or www.goodeveningyork.com

 

York Tourist Information Centre - For your free guide to where to stay and what to do in York, telephone 01904 550099 email tourism@yorkvic.co.uk or visit the website at www.visityork.org