IS it a bird? Is it a plane? No it's the latest limousine to hit the streets of York.

The vehicle, imported from Japan, has already been used to transport fun-seeking parties to venues in the city, and it has even taken a groom to his wedding.

But services are set to be expanded as owner Dave Black has plans to hire lap-dancing girls - or guys - to entertain the parties as they are driven around the city.

The eight-seater limo, which cost in the region of £25,000, boasts a motorised glitter ball, disco lights, two plasma screens and a surround-sound DVD system, smoke machine and laser show.

According to Mr Black, who runs A1 Luxury Limos, at Clifton Moor, and has four more traditional limos, it is like a scene from Stars In Your Eyes when the doors open.

He said: "This vehicle is an absolute one-off. I started limousines nine years ago in York and they have now become very popular.

"But this is something different.

"It is for anybody who has got anything to celebrate. It's like a party night.

"What we are thinking of doing is putting lap-dancing girls in it. We could have male escorts and female hostesses."

City of York Council confirmed that no Public Entertainments Licence would be needed because a limousine was not classed as premises.

The rocket-like limo is due to be sponsored by a major drinks company from January and will be taken around sporting events.

But so far the vehicle has no official name and Mr Black is asking for ideas from the public.

He said: "We don't know what to call it. Whether it's the limo shuttle, the limo rocket, or Sonic The Hedgehog, we just don't know.

"We are looking for ideas from the public."

Whoever comes up with the best name for the vehicle will win a free night out in the limo with their friends.

Anyone with ideas for names should phone Dave on 01904 693333.

Updated: 12:48 Saturday, November 20, 2004