Following the debacle of high prices and over-hype associated with the eve of the Millennium, York's publicans are beginning to wonder what will happen during the forthcoming festive season.

With empty pubs and private parties the theme last year, the last thing licensees needed was New Year's Eve falling on a Sunday and they are beginning to show concern.

"Officially the Millennium is this year, so it could be a funny one again," said Jan Undrill, landlady at the First Hussar, North Street.

"We haven't even thought about this year yet, but I think it could be the same as last year.

"No doubt the supermarkets will be offering all kinds of special discounts again and many people may opt to stay at home again."

Other landlords are confident that this year could be as busy as usual because there is no hype to scare people off.

"Some people are convinced that the real new Millennium is this year," said James Butler, licensee at the recently-opened Last Drop Inn, Colliergate, York.

"And we are looking forward to helping those people celebrate the night with our range of fine beers.

"It should be busy this year, and we are really looking forward to our first New Year. It should be a cracker.

"There is nothing about hiked prices and ridiculous taxi fares, so things should work out better."

And Selby MP, and member of the Parliamentary Beer Group, John Grogan agrees.

"More people than usual will be looking to go out this year," he said.

"They will be looking to make up for last year. Scenes of celebration from last year have made New Year more important and I think pubs will be busy as a result."

Martin Vevers, chapter clerk at York Minster, said there would be a 11.30pm service as there was last year to mark the occasion.

"We are not expecting the same number of people congregating outside the Minster, but I am sure there will be a good few," he said.

reporters@ycp.co.uk