HUNDREDS of York folk got into the Christmas spirit at a traditional city event yesterday.

The Lord Mayor's Christmas Cheer receptions took place yesterday - and welcomed more than 400 elderly people to two special parties held in the historic Assembly Rooms.

The Lord Mayor of York, Cllr Ian Gillies, hosted the morning and afternoon teas with he wife, the Lady Mayoress.

As well as the traditional mince pies and crackers, the guests were entertained by the children of Poppleton Ousebank School, and the York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir.

The event was supported by local businesses, and the Lord Mayor praised their help for the much-loved event.

He said: “I am delighted to join in the festive cheer and would also like to thank the sponsors for supporting this event. Sponsorship has been received from Pavers, Shepherd Building Group, TSYS and the York Community Carol Concert.

"In addition, Co-operative Foods at Haxby have kindly donated mince pies and Christmas crackers in a festive gesture of support, we have also received many generous raffle prizes from businesses across the city. Christmas is a special time of year and I am delighted to be part of an event which spreads Christmas Cheer to many elderly residents in the city.”