A LEADING light in York’s history has inspired the centrepiece of this year’s Illuminating York festival.

John Snow, a 19th century doctor, made crucial discoveries in the treatment of cholera, and went on to pioneer the use of anaesthetics.

Now his life and legacy will be illuminated in a ground-breaking 3D projection show at the Eye of York, as part of the ninth ever festival of lights in the city.

The show - Hidden Worlds, is being produced by industry leading lights Seeper, and organisers have promised an entertaining and unforgettable trip into the “hidden worlds of the microscopic and the unconscious”.

The festival has a supporting programme of free events across the city - with eleven other new illuminating artworks, supporting projects at the city’s top attractions, a a programme to support new and emerging artists - and its national reputation is growing.

The council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism and culture Cllr Sonja Crisp said: “I am thrilled that Illuminating York, named in the Guardian as one of Europe’s top ten light festivals, will once again bring residents and visitors a memorable spectacle. As well as the central artwork there will be a full programme of light events across the city centre.”

Impossible Arts will present “Codex”, a magical art installation at the Coppergate Centre, while Twist Design have created “The Wheels of Industry for King’s Square”, and Viaperformance return with T”hen Chocolate Shall it Be” at King’s Manor.

Illuminating York runs from Wednesday, October 29 to Saturday, November 1 from 6pm – 10pm.

Tickets for Hidden Worlds cost £4, or £3 for under 16s. Under 5s are free and under 12s must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets go on sale on Monday, September 29 at York Theatre Royal Box Office on 01904 623568 or www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk A full programme of all the artworks will be available on www.illuminatingyork.org