YORK people with at least half a century of experience behind them are being asked to share their views on all aspects of life in the city.

Free refreshments and energy-saving light bulbs will be on offer at a city centre consultation session on Monday.

People born before 1953 are invited to speak out on all aspects of life in York, from leisure opportunities to health care, at the event, which has been organised by York Older People's Assembly.

Don Parlabean, former councillor and spokesman for the assembly, said: "We hope many people aged over 50 will drop in and give us their views on subjects like transport, crime, care services. The day will be informal with plenty of opportunity to chat over a cup of coffee."

In addition to refreshments, visitors can also pick up a free low-energy light bulb and enter a prize draw for an energy-saving kettle.

Views and ideas collected on the day will help to build up a "vision" of how York residents would like to see the city develop over the next 20 years. Without Walls, the new partnership representing statutory and voluntary organisations, will then draw up a city vision which reflects the views of the community.

York Older People's Assembly was created in October to give senior residents and older people's organisations, more say in local decision-making. The 2001 census revealed that more than one-third of York's population is now aged over 50, due to longer life expectancy.

The 50+ event will take place from 10am to 2pm, at York Central Methodist Church, in St Saviourgate, just off Stonebow. More details are available from Penny Hutchinson, telephone 01904 552037.

Updated: 09:41 Friday, January 24, 2003