THIS was the scene in the heart of York as city centre retailers tried to brighten up their area.

The committee of the Minster Quarter tied balloons to all their members’ front doors, as part of a drive to promote the area.

The Minster Quarter was set up last year to promote the independent retailers in the streets near York Minster, such as High Petergate and Stonegate.

Committee chairman David Brooks, of the Dean Court Hotel, said: “It’s about promoting the area and the 300-plus businesses.”