FEW parts of York look less historic than the modern mall at Monks Cross.

But it turns out that the footprint of time has been left even here.

Archaeologists have discovered that the Romans established a military camp on the site.

This is a fantastic chance to rebrand the shopping park on a Roman theme.

Fashion slaves could flock in their legions to the retail empire, Caesar bargain or two and generally indulge in a spending orgy before catching the chariot-and-ride service home.

And who should we get to launch the new look?

Why, York's James Crossley, the former Gladiator himself.

Updated: 11:06 Wednesday, May 28, 2003