A trial run of new shopping hours is bringing European culture to York.

Managers of Coney Street shops are inviting customers through their doors until 6pm throughout the summer.

Stephanie Brennan, a member of the Coney Street Traders' Association and manager of Wallis, said: "What we are proposing will make the city a lively place for longer."

From Monday, the majority of shops in the street will be opening until 6pm, rather than their usual closing time of 5.30pm.

The change is initially only to last through the summer but, if successful, managers hope it will become a permanent feature and spread throughout the city.

Mrs Brennan said: "In the summer, York is quite a lively place in the evening because there are so many tourists, and even residents, who want to enjoy the evening sunshine in the city centre.''

Most shops in Coney Street will be open late every day until September 5. If successful, the scheme may be made more permanent.

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