THIS region, with York at its centre, is deeply layered with history. The past shapes the present in so many ways and the Viking era has been a particular influence.

Ever since the Coppergate discoveries in the 1970s, Viking artefacts have taught us about our distant past. Now a fresh hoard of weapons has been unearthed, leaving the tantalising possibility that what has been found could be a Viking boat burial.

How fitting that such a promising find should be made during the annual Jorvik Viking Festival.

Updated: 10:02 Monday, February 16, 2004