DECORATIVE lights hung on York's city walls will be taken down next week - but will return later this year.

The winter lights, sponsored by the York Business Improvement District (BID), are still in place at Micklegate, Monkbar, Walmgate and Bootham bars, and will be removed on February 28.

However, the BID said this week the lights will return later this year and into 2018, as a recurring seasonal feature for the city centre, and could be expanded.

Andrew Lowson, York BID executive director, said: "Through feedback from businesses, comments from the public and an overwhelming reaction to images of the lights on social media clocking more than 14,000 interactions, it’s obvious the winter lights will have a second act.

"We are currently looking to dress the city wall bars again plus add a few more features that will be just as exciting and stunning as this past season’s spectacle."

Zoe Plummer, owner of Ambiente Tapas in Goodramgate and Fossgate, said: "The winter lights created a real wow factor, praised by residents and visitors.

"As a city-centre business owner, it was great to see the BID’s work positively highlight York’s welcoming atmosphere, particularly beyond the holiday season. It’s initiatives like this that create extra interest in our city and keep people returning year after year."