HORSING around is the last thing on this man's mind - for he's just been saddled with the prospect of execution.

But don't worry, capital punishment hasn't returned. It's just Bishopthorpe Pageant participant David Smith rehearsing his part as Archbishop of York Richard le Scrope, who was led away to his execution on a "sorry" horse in 1405.

Once perfected, the scene will form part of the spectacular Bishopthorpe Pageant 2000, taking place in the magnificent setting of Bishopthorpe Palace, the residence of the Archbishop of York.

The outdoor play tells the story of the palace and the archbishops who have inhabited it.

The re-enactment will be the first in 30 years.

First performed in 1928, the Pageant play was last performed in 1970.

It acts out events from English history as seen through the eyes of Bishopthorpe, from Roman times to the present day.

This year's version, updated by John Dawick, is an epic, with a cast of about 120 adults, 40 children, four horses, a dog and a goose.

The pageant, which has been two years in the planning, runs from Tuesday to Saturday, July 22, at 7.30pm. The palace gardens will be open to ticket-holders from 6.30pm each evening. Tickets (£5, or £3 for children under 16) are available by callingYork 705424.