York history between the book covers (From York Press)

York history between the book covers

12:10pm Sunday 22nd June 2008 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

YORK'S colourful history has been rewritten by primary school pupils who were inspired to put pen to paper following a tour of the city.

Children at Osbaldwick Primary School have brought York's past to life in a new tour guide book, which has just been published, featuring their own words and illustrations.

Covering York's past from the Romans to the 20th century, the book describes a walking tour of the city, taking in many of the historical features.

To mark the launch, the children will be leading a walk around the route, setting out from the Minster at 6pm on Wednesday.

Class teacher Matthew Brown led the ambitious project, but said the children were the real stars of the show.

"We went on a tour of the city and the children wrote about what they had seen and heard - and the idea of a guide book was born," he said.

"There's so much interesting history in York, and the children wanted to share this with other children - residents and visitors alike."

The route of the circular walk begins and ends at the Minster, and sections of the book give brief insights into both familiar and unfamiliar aspects of York's history.

The city walls, the Museum Gardens and Shambles are just some of the places described in the guide.

Ghosts, the plague and Guy Fawkes all come into the guide along with other interesting anecdotes.

"The children have really enjoyed putting this book together. Not only have they learned about history but they have had to deal with writing, illustrations, design, map skills and marketing," said Mr Brown.

"It has given them something about what they can be really proud."

The guide book, A Walk In York, is available from Osbaldwick Primary School by phoning 01904 411036 or emailing osbaldwick@york.gov.uk. Copies cost £3.50, plus post and packaging.

They are also available from York Tourist Information Centre.