A half-term activity with a twist is on offer in York as part of the city's spectacular Jolablot festival - Viking battle drills.

Dozens of children are learning training techniques, battle chants and shield charges from two of Jorvik's very own Viking warriors.

Gillian Neild, of Jorvik, in the Coppergate Centre, York, said youngsters were taking up the noisy traditional battle routines with gusto.

She said: "It's a great opportunity for children to let off steam and find out whether they can make the grade as a warrior."

Battle drills are being held everyday until Friday at noon, 12.45pm and 1.45pm, in Coppergate Walk. There is no charge.

Visitors to a York church were given a fascinating insight into the rich culture of Viking life as the festival got underway. Authentically-costumed members of the Regia Anglorun Society brought the city's Viking heritage to life at the living history event at St Mary's Church, in Castlegate, on Saturday.

Their detailed displays included an array of the types of foods Vikings would eat and demonstrations of how they minted coins and made fabric.

The event, which was part of the week-long Viking festival, gave visitors the chance to get a taste of Viking life without having to queue at nearby Jorvik.

A range of Viking-related events are being held in the city this week. Details can be found in our What's On section.

Updated: 08:21 Tuesday, February 18, 2003