PUZZLED drinkers may have thought their night was taking a turn for the worse when four Napoleonic soldiers rolled up on a horse-drawn carriage in York city centre.

But thankfully the battle-weary group were not the latest reinforcements for harassed doorstaff, but enthusiastic supporters launching an eye-catching exhibition.

Kennedy's and the Slug and Lettuce are displaying photographs and surreal items created by local artist Scott Buchanan Barden.

And the two plush bars have really outdone themselves this time with an intriguing list of items which must become a talking point for any visitor.

The photographs are all Scott and friends dressed as soldiers in ornamental uniforms that would not have looked out of place at an ambassador's reception.

Reality meets fiction with an appearance by the Red Baron, a combination of the ridiculous and the romantic, and an engaging range of bushy moustaches.

Matt Aconley, of Kennedy's, said some customers have been "stopped dead in their tracks" by the unusual displays.

Speaking about the launch night, attended by 60 people, he said: "I don't think I have ever seen so many cameras together at the same time in York.

"Everyone has been very receptive. It's so original. It's absolutely absurd, it's over-the-top, but it has never been done before."

The pictures will be on display until July 3 for all those looking to escape the football and fill up with culture. Entry is of course free.

Any other aspiring York artists looking for somewhere to display their work should contact Matt at Kennedy's on 01904 620222.

FREE beer! Two magic words all Bar Talk readers like to hear. The beer in question is Dormouse Ale and unsurprisingly it will be available at The Dormouse, off Shipton Road.

There are 50 bottles up for grabs to customers next weekend as pub workers mark reopening after a refurbishment that has given the place a facelift.

Landlord Ian Carter said the bespoke ale has been brought in from Mitchells and Butlers brewery. He's hoping a spell of decent weather will allow visitors to enjoy it in the newly decked out beer garden.

He said: "I thought this would be a really original way of marking the re-opening of the Dormouse after the refurbishment.

"We wanted a way of celebrating and I thought a bespoke ale would be quite special."

We'll drink to that. Cheers!

Updated: 10:44 Saturday, June 05, 2004