IS this the least popular condom machine in York? Well quite possibly, because the white prophylactic dispenser, housed in the Royal Oak, Goodramgate, hasn't been used for weeks according to landlord Dave Smith.

This may have something to do with its location in the pub's corridor as opposed to the more traditional dark corner of the gents' toilets Bar Talk suspects.

Dave and his wife Sally, who are celebrating 25 years at the pub this week, aren't sure what the unprofitable appliance tells us about their regulars. Sally assures Bar Talk they are a healthy and sociable bunch but perhaps a bit shy.

To heap on the misery, she has spent more than £100 on a new batch of supplies in all manner of colours, shapes and sizes which remain in the massive cardboard box they arrived in.

Scarborough-born Dave, who admitted to having sleepless nights before the 25th anniversary party because of all the drinks he owes people, said it would probably take another quarter of a century to shift them all.

In the meantime he is considering giving them out as Christmas presents - what better way to celebrate the virgin birth?

- WITH the news that York's own international award-winning, gold-plated, fuel-injected, top-notch brewery is set to open two new pubs in Lawrence Street and Micklegate comes a management shake-up.

The Last Drop's landlord, big Vernon Seymour, is off down the road to The Queen, Lawrence Street, which is due to be renamed when the York Brewery takes over in a few months.

It's also heading for a refurbishment and Vernon, who is looking forward to a challenge after two years at the Colliergate mainstay, says he is up to the task.

His only fear is that the bar won't be big enough to hold the huge selection of York Brewery beers and guest ales he has in store for locals and students alike.

He leaves assistant manager Elaine Pritchard and her partner Dave Morgan to take over.

The brewery is also expanding its empire into the former Rock Caf, Micklegate, which backs on to its Toft Green headquarters.

The building is said to house a huge kitchen so expect some sizzling delights.

What with the Wetherspoon chain moving in to the Punchbowl, Blossom Street, the west-side of York is facing a long-awaited renaissance.

Updated: 09:09 Saturday, May 04, 2002