AN EXPLOSIVE finale to the 27th annual Jorvik Viking Festival saw hundreds of warriors battle on Knavesmire before the traditional burning of the longboat.

A week of city-wide activities culminated on Saturday evening with thousands of visitors braving freezing winds on Bustardthorpe field, to enjoy a re-enactment of Viking battle, the burning of the specially-made Viking longboat and a firework display.

Earlier in the day, events had taken place throughout York, including the ‘Brawl in the Guildhall’ Strongman competition - which saw Viking warriors battle for the first ever Jorvik amazing Strongman trophy.

Meanwhile hundreds of Viking warriors gathered at Dean’s Park in the shadow of the Minster, to set off through the streets of the city to the Eye of York, where they prepared for battle later on Knavesmire later that evening.

Festival marketing manager, David Scott said more than 2300 people came to Knavesmire on Saturday.

“It was the biggest and busiest event we have ever staged,” he said. “All the feedback has been really positive.”

Lord Mayor York, Coun David Horton was one of those who braved the cold to witness the finale on Saturday evening.

He said: “I have been to this event a few times in the past but not while it’s been in this location.

“It looks like a good turn out given that it’s very cold. I have been told by the Archaeological Trust that it’s been a very turn out all week but it has been a good week weather-wise.”

Coun Horton said the boat burning was always “quite a spectacle” and said the Jorvik Viking Festival marked the kick-off of York’s tourist season. He said: “From February you are into march and that means it’s tourist season again.”