HOUSES in York cost a king's ransom. We have barely finished one war, and the United States is looking to start the next. Hot spring weather usually means a lousy summer.

But here is some news guaranteed to cheer you up: York's first Comedy Festival is on its way.

Organisers have gathered a gaggle of gagsters to tickle this city's ancient funnybone in June.

With our continental caf culture, our Easter flower displays and now this festival, York will soon be known as the city of caffs, daffs and laughs.

Updated: 11:17 Tuesday, April 15, 2003