STORIES starring the residents of York's care homes were read out to a rapturous reception.

The fictional tales were penned by writers from as far away as the United States after pensioners sat down for interviews and revealed details of achievements they were unable to complete in years gone by.

Their musings were taped by Budapest-born Janos Bene, who came up with the idea in an attempt to connect with people of his mother's generation, and sent them across the pond to poets, playwrights and novelists.

The end result, which included everything from a court room play to poetry, was revealed to the stars at Mulberry Court Care Home when the writers came together to perform the stories in front of the main characters and their families.

Mr Bene, of Holgate, York, said: "It was very positive and they were very interested in the stories.

"I was really pleased.

I was nervous going in as I didn't know how it was going to turn out but the writers did a great job of reading them.

"It's been a four months process but it's the first step in what will hopefully continue and I think it was great."

The project was inspired by the Landmark Worldwide organisation and their self expression and leadership programme, which Mr Bene took part in, and was tasked with coming up with an activity.

Sue Hill, lead activities co-ordinator at the Clifton Park Avenue care home, said: "It was a great success.

"The readings were very special and all the residents enjoyed them.

"All of the residents love the company and people coming into talk to them, and everyone got a book of all the stories to show them what had been done.

"The plays were excellent and the way they were read out was fantastic and the performers had everyone laughing."