PLACES are still available for this year’s York Christmas Cheer event - but only until Monday.

Up to 400 people, aged 65 or older, will be invited to the annual reception, which will be hosted by the Lord Mayor and Sheriff of York next month.

The event will be held in the Assembly Rooms, on Tuesday, December 5, with receptions taking place at 10am and 2pm, and both events will be attended by The Right Honourable Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Barbara Boyce & Lady Mayoress, Valerie Clark, along with the Sheriff of York, Mrs Gillian Brian and the Sheriff’s Consort, Anne Bush.

Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Barbara Boyce, said the event was highly thought of in the city, and urged anyone who could help make it even more special this year, to get in touch.

Cllr Boyce said: “We are so grateful for the support we receive from local businesses, schools and the choir in making this such a special occasion.

“As part of the event we hold a much loved raffle for the guests, and would like to appeal to any businesses who may be able to help with a raffle prize.

"Please contact the civic office with any donations on 01904 553979 or email civic@york.gov.uk”

Anyone wishing to attend must complete the application form below, and names of attendees will be drawn at random on Monday, November 20, with winners receiving one ticket for one of the receptions.

Entrants are advised to specify a preferred time, but organisers may not be able to ensure first choice, depending on the number of applications received.

Additional application forms can be collected from the Customer Centre at West Offices and the York Explore and all York libraries.

They should be returned to The Christmas Cheer Draw, Mansion House, York, YO1 9QL.

But entries must arrive no later than November 20 so time is of the essence.