PUB landlords in York today rubbished claims that Britain's revellers are losing their taste for the traditional New Year's Eve blow-out.

A survey, published by Scarborough-based frozen food company McCain, claims only 17 per cent of Britons plan to party in the pub on Tuesday.

Soaring prices, packed pubs and the problem of getting home were all said to be to blame.

Last New Year's Eve saw York's pubs and clubs enjoy a busy night, with thousands of revellers packing into the area in front of the Minster for the countdown to midnight.

Frank Cartin, president of York Licensed Victuallers' Association, said he expected more of the same this year.

He said: "It is a good night with a great atmosphere. Media hype killed the Millennium, but since then we have been back to normal."

Carla Tracey, bar supervisor at the Five Lions, in Walmgate, said: "New Year in York isn't in decline, it is the opposite, if anything.

"All our letting rooms have been booked up for a month, the regulars have been asking what our plans are and I haven't heard of anyone having parties, everyone is coming into town."

John Marrison, manager of The Lowther Hotel in Cumberland Street, said: "I think it will be a good New Year. Traditionally it is busy here, we get a mix of locals and students, it makes for a good atmosphere."

Mr Cartin said he did not know of any pubs that would be serving for the full 36 hours now allowed over the New Year period. His pub, the Snickleway Inn, in Goodram-gate, will be serving until 1am.

He said: "Some might, but I've not heard of any yet. The legislation is good for landlords though. It has decriminalised New Year parties and gives people running pubs an important bit of discretion."

Updated: 10:22 Saturday, December 28, 2002