THE different faces of York - from Vikings to ghost hunters - today joined forces to relaunch the First Stop York By Train promotion.

York Tourism Bureau once again teamed up with Arriva Trains Northern to attract more visitors to the city by train.

Romans, ghosts hunters, train guards, dungeon ghouls, Vikings and York's town crier were on hand to support the publicity drive.

The campaign, which aims to coax people out of their cars and on to public transport, is being rolled out from coast to coast across the York-based train company's network.

For the 11th year running, tourists arriving by train can see a lot more for less, with half-price entry offers at 30 of the city's visitor attractions.

For those interested in taking a short break there are also special rates at hotels and guest houses.

In 1999, 15 per cent of visitors came to York by train. The figure leapt to 21 per cent in 2000, and last year it increased again to 23.5 per cent.

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of York Tourism Bureau, said: "Last year an additional 2065 beds were booked in hotels and guest houses in the city - an increase of 160 per cent on the previous year."

First Stop York By Train runs until April 30, 2003. Discount voucher booklets are available at principal stations throughout the north or at York Train Station travel centre on production of a valid rail ticket.

For further information contact Arriva Trains Northern Helpline on 0870 6023322 or York Tourist Information Centre on 01904 621756.

Updated: 17:14 Tuesday, October 29, 2002