IT started as an innovative way for the tourist industry to say thank you to York people.

Now Residents First is one of the most eagerly awaited weekends of the winter.

The attractions which threw open their doors to locals reported an excellent response.

People seized the opportunity of free admission to either visit a gem on their doorstep for the first time, or to return to a particular favourite.

These "local tourists" are now better informed about York's attractions and so are more likely to return with guests later in the year.

To coin a phrase, everyone's a winner.

Updated: 11:13 Monday, January 27, 2003