IN THE grey cold of February, an invasion can be just the thing - especially if it is friendly.

The annual arrival of the Vikings seems particularly welcome this year, when the Viking Festival stretches to two weeks.

Fireworks, costume dramas and battles help this city to connect with its long-ago past in a fun and entertaining manner, while also attracting Viking enthusiasts from around the world.

The ever-popular festival is doubly welcome because it pulls visitors to the city at a time of year when they might otherwise prefer to stay away.

Once again, the Norse code is doing York proud.

Updated: 09:48 Monday, February 14, 2005