The York Archaeological Trust this afternoon launched its latest publication, 2,000 Years Of York.

Helping launch the new book are, front from left, David Potts as a monk, the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Derek Smalllwood, and Neil McVie as a Viking, with, front from left, Jane Stockdale, as a Victorian lady, Russell Marwood as a 17th century bishop, Lynda Swanborough as a Roman lady, and Heather Dawson, in Georgian costume. Picture by David Harrison

The work draws on nearly three decades of archaeological investigations and surveys carried out in the city. It was presented to the Lord Mayor, Coun Derek Smallwood, at a ceremony at the Mansion House.

From the Romans and Anglo Saxons through to the Vikings and Normans, the 44-page colour booklet brings history to life, from the heights of marvellous architecture to the foulest cesspool. By revealing everything from the remains of houses to cemeteries and battle defences, the Archaeological Trust has shed light on the life and work of York's citizens over two Millennia.

Dr Peter Addyman, of the Trust, said: "2,000 Years Of York distills some of the most exciting discoveries made in York and presents a remarkable picture of how the city has developed.

"Virtually all human life is here. As the Millennium approaches we though we would like to tell residents and visitors alike something new about the last 2,000 years of this wonderful city."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.