VIKING terror returned to York when more than 50 wannabe invaders auditioned for a part in a gruesome new show.

York Dungeon bosses are looking for two or three suitable characters to play the staring roles of Erik Bloodaxe and an equally convincing Erica in a new £50,000 Jorvik feature set to open at the attraction this Easter.

Yesterday 55 aspiring performers, from out-of-work trained actors to local cleaners and shop workers, performed in front of a panel of judges and other candidates.

The auditions were held in Trinity Methodist Church, Monkgate, York.

The most successful performers will be chosen to feature in the climax of the Dungeon's new show, which is set to become one of the most gruesome ever hosted by the attraction.

Dungeon chief Helen Douglas said: "We're delighted with the response, there are obviously a lot of people out there who fancy causing a bit of carnage.

"The new Jorvik show will aim to bring home the very real terror and scale of slaughter inflicted on the people of York by the Scandinavia marauders.

"There'll also be a few surprises along the way with an injection of typical Dungeon tongue-in-cheek humour."

Updated: 11:37 Thursday, February 28, 2002