A NUMBER of York clergy today condemned the Satan's Grotto feature at York Dungeon. They particularly object to the scroll on which visitors can sign away their soul.

We respect their concerns. But to suggest this established seasonal feature dabbles with the occult is an over-reaction which will lend it undue credibility.

A man dressed in horns giving out severed fingers is par for the course at this chamber of horrors. Children cannot tour the Dungeon without an adult, and their parents or guardians can make the decision as to whether they "sign up" to Satan.

If the tableau has any wider meaning, it is that commercialisation has demeaned Christmas - a view to which many would subscribe, churchgoers or not.

Updated: 09:33 Monday, December 06, 2004