THE kitchens of York's award-winning Treasurer's House will remain open until Christmas following hundreds of requests from regular customers.

For the first time since opening ten years ago, the tea room at the 17th-century National Trust-owned building, in Minster Yard, will stay open during the winter, after the house closes to the public on Sunday. A three-course Christmas menu will now be offered from November 26 to 29, December 3 to 5, and again from December 10 to 12, offering diners the opportunity to try seasonal Yorkshire dishes including potted cheese, glazed ham and plum pudding. A glass of mulled wine will also be offered. The idea is just one of a number of new initiatives organised by the house which will open again to the public in March.

"After many years of asking us to stay open in winter our regulars have finally won their battle and we're going to give it a go," said catering manager Anne Lyus.

"When customers see it decorated for Christmas I'm hoping it will banish the winter blues."

Updated: 11:10 Tuesday, November 05, 2002