CAROL singers have been preparing for one of York's great pre-Christmas events - the annual series of Carols In Kirkgate concerts in the recreated Victorian street at the heart of the Castle Museum.

The street has again been transformed to a time from Christmas past for the concerts start today and continue until December 10.

This year children from Hempland Primary School were performing alongside the renowned York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir, the Kirkgate Singers and Kirkgate Ladies - all in period costume.

Charlotte Dootson, spokeswoman for York Museums' Trust, said that Carols In Kirkgate promised to be a magical evening for all the family.

She said: "It's always a wonderful experience. York Castle Museum's Kirkgate is transformed into an atmospheric Victorian winter street, with a choir in costume and all your favourite carols to sing along to. "It all combines to make a wonderful York tradition not to be missed," said Charlotte.

Carols in Kirkgate runs from 8pm to 9.30pm on December 4,5,6,7 and 10.

All proceeds go to the Lord Mayor's Christmas Cheer Fund for distribution to local causes.

Updated: 11:28 Wednesday, December 04, 2002