VIPs are now on hand to help thousands of tourists negotiate the historic streets of York city centre.

Four specially-chosen people, known as Visitor Information Patrols, will meet and greet visitors during the holiday period.

Now in its 12th year, the VIPs are able to speak English, French, German, Russian and Welsh.

As well as pacing the streets helping people discover what to see and do in York, they will also be at Union Terrace coach parks and city car parks handing out advice on attractions.

Della Rhodes, manager at York's Tourist Information Centres, said: "The VIPs will be at the front line in what is York's biggest industry.

"The fact that they can speak a different language is great for foreign visitors and their knowledge of the city will be helpful to all who visit York this summer." The VIPs will be roaming York throughout the rest of July and August.

Updated: 11:09 Friday, July 25, 2003