TREASURE hunters could find a pot of gold in York over the coming weeks - and help raise charity cash at the same time.

Simon Nicholls, of Acaster Malbis, has organised a city trail in aid of the National Asthma Campaign.

Mr Nicholls is hoping to raise hundreds of pounds for research into the condition and promote the city at the same time.

The hunt takes participants on a tour of York's "treasures", visiting some of the city's most important buildings.

Those who solve the cryptic clues and discover all the mystery buildings could win prizes donated by firms including York Brewery, Browns department store and Rudgate Brewery.

Mr Nicholls said: "People can do this treasure hunt in their own time. They have until the end of January to finish it. We are hoping to raise money for the National Asthma Campaign and show off York at the same time."

Anyone who wants to take part should pick up a sheet, priced £3, from the tourist information centre in York.

Updated: 15:51 Thursday, November 29, 2001