THE source of mysterious lights seen by hundreds of people across York has been revealed - it was not quite the Northern Lights, but it was a Polar effect.

Dozens of people phoned the Evening Press to say they saw mysterious and eerie beams of light above the city.

Huntington Polar Ford, in Jockey Lane, staged the display to mark their tenth anniversary and to launch new garage facilities built after a major fire last year.

Low cloud cover at the weekend affected the lights, creating a impressive display that could be seen up to eight miles away.

The display included a number of high-powered spotlights that were placed on the dealership's roof.

York-based events consultants Rockin' Horse Promotions, which specialises in dramatic product launches and large scale lighting effects, installed the temporary display.

Manager Mark Brayshaw said the weather conditions helped make a particularly unusual display.

Tony Munday, of Forge Close, went to investigate the light's source with his wife.

He said the lights clearly weren't a spaceship but he was mystified why they were turned on in the middle of the night.

Paul Dapprich, of York, said he was disappointed to find out the light's source as he thought a new nightclub had opened up in the area.

Erica Birkett, of Askham Lane, Acomb, said the lights were clearly visible from her house.

Polar Ford marketing manager Angela Raylor said she hoped the event had not distressed anyone or caused any loss of sleep.

She said: "It's amazing how many people have seen the lights."

Updated: 09:02 Wednesday, May 22, 2002