CITIZENS of York, Nebraska, have rejected plans to import a fake corner of York, England, and we don't blame them.

Critics often a cry that our own city is in danger of "Disneyfication", with its rich architectural treasures reduced to the level of a theme park. But our vision of what mock-Micklegate might have looked like on a Nebraskan green suggests that their town was at risk of "Eborification".

Some hoped that the barmy bar would strengthen our tourist links with the US. In fact, this "monstrosity" could have done the opposite.

There is no substitute for the real thing, as the many Americans who visit the original York are quick to acknowledge.

Updated: 10:14 Thursday, October 20, 2005