FORGET about Bing Crosby. In York, we're dreaming of a green Christmas.

The first big switch-on of the season saw a gaggle of famous names gather for the illumination ceremony. What they witnessed was York's best ever festive display - powered, we should be proud to proclaim, by renewable energy.

Even Santa had gone green.

After such a gloomy year, the decorations bring some much-needed cheer to the city streets. We hope they also act as a beacon, luring in shoppers from miles around. York retailers need a good Christmas like never before.

Updated: 10:11 Friday, November 16, 2001