The Government is doing its best to eliminate discrimination. Yet there is a spot in York where it is still prevalent. And rightly so.

The St Sampson Centre advertises 'anyone over 60 is welcome'. Quite how those who are below the age barrier are identified from those above is not clear. Maybe it is not all that important. There are two menus, one for pensioners and one for those who are not.

In this redundant church all the staff are volunteers. Now celebrating 25 years as a centre for the retired, something like 1,000 people visit the centre daily. Many just call in for a coffee or tea, to meet friends or for a rest. But food is available.

The range is limited but most of the food comes from a local butcher and bakers.

In the cause of research I pushed the boat out!

My sausage roll, ham roll, medium-sized curd tart and cup of tea set me back £1.60. Although I sat in the main area to watch what went on, there is a separate room for the non-smokers. The hardy types can sit outside.

Friendliness and companionship abounded. "Bring the tea back if it's cold", I was told. But it wasn't.

This is not a sophisticated spot but clearly a haven for many. Open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday, with most Mondays given over to local charities that are fund raising.

At noon on Wednesday, the Rev David Porter conducts a communion service in the small church.

This is a worthy cause and an excellent use of an otherwise unused church. And for a quick snack the food is not bad.

Restaurant: St Sampson Centre

Address: Church Street, York

Reviewed: March 4th 2000