TODAY we look again at how the people of York celebrated the Festival of Britain in 1951.

The festival aimed to raise the nation's spirits following the war and years of austerity, whilst promoting the very best in British art, design and industry.

Mr Greaves, pictured attempting to lift his wife on to a penny farthing cycle, certainly raised a few smiles, as did the group of street couriers parading through the city streets.

Is the man standing beside the wheelbarrow in the centre of the top picture wearing a false moustache?

York's civic party of that year, including the Lord Mayor, can be seen giving the people a wave during a special cruise along the River Ouse to mark the occasion, while various other important-looking dignitaries are pictured leaving the Minster.

What better way to celebrate the festival than with a fancy dress ball?.

Peter Chouler and Anne Maclean, from Scarborough, make a striking couple as they arrive at the glitzy event in regal garb.

Updated: 10:59 Friday, January 24, 2003