TALKING sculptures will be the star new attraction when a maize maze returns to York this summer.

Large wooden figures will read out clues to visitors, as they try to find their way around the giant corn field on the city's outskirts.

This year will be the fourth in which York has hosted the maize maze, which is thought to be the largest of its kind in the world. About 1.5 million plants are used in the maze, which covers 30 acres.

Since it was first held in 2002, it has become a favourite day out for families across North Yorkshire, and this year's event promises to be even more popular, as the giant structures guide visitors around the field.

Maze Master, Tom Pearcy, said: "Last year visitors had to read the clues off signs. This year we will have talking wooden sculptures. As visitors approach the unusual and quirky sculptures, they will come alive and give them the next clue.

"Children in particular will have great fun trying to track down the next sculpture to get the clue."

The sculptures have been carved by chainsaw artist, Mick Burns, and include Excalibur - a 15ft high hand holding a sword coming out of the ground, and Shark Attack - a shark's fin slicing through the ground towards outstretched arms.

York Maze is based next to Grimston Bar Park & Ride, on the A1079. It opens on Saturday, July 16, and will be open every day from 10am to 6pm, until Sunday, September 11.

Updated: 12:21 Saturday, May 14, 2005