CITY centre shoppers were treated to a bit of calypso magic in aid of a good cause when a steel band entertained passers by in Parliament Street, York.

Steel Expression, a six-piece who got together in 2001, played for around five hours in support of Helen Clarkson, who aims to run the London Marathon on Sunday to raise money for the Macmillan Cancer Relief York Appeal.

A spokesman for the charity said that people were "throwing money into the buckets", and the event raised about £700.

Those interested in the appeal should phone 01904 756402.

Updated: 08:55 Friday, April 11, 2003