A TOUCH of country life has been brought to the centre of York with the transformation of a city square into a giant lawn.

Turf was laid across St Sampson’s Square earlier this week and will remain in place until tomorrow for the Tea On The Lawn event, which forms part of the York In Bloom festivities.

The grassed area will give people the chance to relax and take a break, while today (will also see donkey rides being offered between 10am and 5pm, while a summer craft market boasting about 40 stalls selling a variety of items is being set up in nearby Parliament Street.

The event has been organised by City of York Council’s city centre management team, having proved a hit with residents and visitors in recent years as it has provided an open space in York’s shopping heart for soft ball games.

Strawberries, teas and cold refreshments will also be on offer around the square to give shoppers the chance to enjoy outdoor dining.