AN HISTORIC York landmark with an ugly past is set to get a facelift.

The Tyburn, on Knavesmire, hosted executions in the city for more than four centuries, including the hanging of infamous highwayman Dick Turpin.

The site is currently marked by a small paved area and a plaque, but councillors have agreed to fund improvements to the site. The Dringhouses and Woodthorpe Ward Committee has pledged £1,500 for a clean-up, including replanting in the spring and the repair of a bench.

It is also hoped there will be enough funding for a new bench and information board to explain the history of the site to visitors.

Executions at the Tyburn took place until 1801, when the events were moved to the castle.

It was 1739 when notorious highwayman Dick Turpin was executed there for horse theft.

The Liberal Democrat councillor for Dringhouses and Woodthorpe Ward, Tom Holvey, said: “The Tyburn is an important part of local history so I am pleased that the ward committee is able to fund these improvements.”

“The site has a fascinating, if gruesome, history so I am pleased that the improvements look set to include a new information board to explain that history to residents and visitors. Dringhouses has a rich history and is a key gateway to the city so it is important that we invest in restoring the site and promote pride in the area.”