THE eerie tale of a York man who encountered a ghost troop of soldiers in a cellar will be retold at the city's first Roman festival.

It is 50 years since Harry Martindale had an extraordinary encounter with a troop of Roman soldiers in the cellar under the Treasurer's House.

At 1pm on Saturday, July 26, he will share his ghostly experience in the centrepiece of the Eboracum Roman Festival.

The upper room of Mana restaurant, in St Sampson's Square, will be the focus of his memories in a presentation entitled Fact, Fable And The Forgotten Army.

The presentation will also include a talk from archaeologist Mike Griffiths, whose excavation work under York Minister in the late 1960s revealed a previously unknown Roman road running under the Treasurer's House.

The festival aims to highlight the huge influence the Romans had, and left, on York - or Eboracum.

Also explored in the festival will be the links between Emperor Constantine and the city. Constantine was hailed as the leader of the Roman Empire in York.

York Eboracum Roman Festival co-ordinator Keith Mulhearn said: "When you consider Harry's experience in the light of Mike's subsequent archaeological discovery, you can see a rational explanation for the soldiers in the cellar.

"We are fortunate to be able to bring together two men whose different experiences have given us a better understanding of York's rich Roman heritage."

The festival, which is supported by City of York Council, will re-enact the ascension of Constantine who, on July 25, 306, became the only emperor to accede to the title while away from Rome.

The proclamation will take place at the statue of Constantine beside York Minster, while Mr Griffiths will explore the links between the Emperor and York in a further talk at Mana's on July 27, at 1.30pm.

As well as the re-enactment, the weekend will feature street events in the city centre, including displays of Roman military skills and culture and eastern dancing.

Further information and ticket details can be found at the Tourist Information Centre at De Grey Rooms, in St Leonard's Place.

Updated: 08:35 Friday, July 04, 2003