YOUNG Christians from across the country have been gathering in York for two fun-filled bible camps.

Held in the grounds of Bishopthorpe Palace, home to the Archbishop of York, the camps see children aged between nine and eleven taking part in a wide range of activities and some daily Christian teaching.

Organised by Christian group Ventures, more than 100 children will have visited the camps when the second one finishes on Tuesday.

Some have made the short trip from Leeds and Scarborough, while others have come all the way from the Brecon Beacons in Wales.

Retired vicar of St Paul's Church in Holgate, Derek Wooldridge, who is leading the camps, said: "The atmosphere is fantastic. A wide range of activities have been arranged for the children, from games of football to a trip up York Minster tower, and there is some Christian teaching every night.

"Everyone certainly seems to be enjoying themselves and of course the weather makes a big difference. We are very grateful to the Archbishop for his generosity in throwing open his grounds and his palace."

Updated: 11:23 Saturday, July 28, 2001