A NEW trail mapping the story of chocolate in York has been launched – on the day millions pledge to give up the sweet stuff for Lent.

The city is celebrating the 150th anniversary of Rowntree’s and the sweet history of the city by claiming the title of Britain’s Home of Chocolate.

Its chocolate heritage culminates in a series of new events and attractions beginning this month to mark its proud confectionery past.

The first is a new Chocolate Trail around the city. To help with the launch, children from New Earswick Primary School joined Mr York, the 1920s robot star of the very first Rowntree’s chocolate commercials, to stake the claim on a chocolate map of Britain.

All are pupils at New Earswick Primary School and live in the village which was founded by chocolate maker and philanthropist Joseph Rowntree whose great-great grandson.

York Nestlé Confectionery employee Giles Naish, said: “It is fantastic York is celebrating being a chocolate city. Confectionery has been integral in shaping the city for generations.

“Not only a proud heritage but a bright future as York continues to be a confectionery centre of excellence globally.”