YORK residents are invited to have a go at sketching people this weekend.

York City Art Gallery is one of the attractions opening its doors for free or laying on special offers during the city's annual Residents First weekend.

Sponsored by Yorkshire Water, the event tomorrow and Sunday, is designed to give residents the chance to enjoy the delights of their own city for free, as long as they take along their York Card and proof of address.

The art gallery is running "reflect and sketch" drop-in sessions with artist Jake Attree, when visitors will be able to have a go at sketching or just watch the action. The sessions take place from 10.30am until noon, 1pm to 2.30pm and 3pm to 4.30pm.

Among the other attractions taking part are the Micklegate Bar Museum, which tells the story of the "Royal Gateway" into York and York City sightseeing tours, which will be offering 100 free tickets.

These tickets and others will be available from a special Residents First information point in Parliament Street, which will be open tomorrow and Sunday.

Retailers are also taking part in this year's event for the first time by offering prizes for Residents' Retailers' Raffle. Free tickets will be available from Racing Green, in Coney Street.

Restaurants and hotels will be offering set-price lunches and dinners on Sunday and Monday.

But don't forget that to claim any of the free tickets or offers you have to take along a York card, proof of address and, for the Residents' Feast, a Residents First leaflet too.

For more details, pick up a leaflet from the tourist information centre, the central library or any council office or call 01904 554425/6/7 during office hours.

Updated: 10:31 Friday, January 25, 2002