American tourists today shrugged off with smiles an unofficial travel guide that described them as one of the "worst things" about York.

A whole guesthouse-full of Americans turned out to support its owner, who declared he was more than proud to host them.

Will Lefebve, of the Bentley Guesthouse, Grosvenor Terrace, attacked as nonsense the Knowhere Guide, published on the Internet, which said York was overrun with visitors from the USA.

The guide even quotes one American who says: "I can attest to how horrible all the American tourists are - they almost keep me away." I apologise and am completely embarrassed."

But Mr Lefebve, whose guesthouse is currently completely occupied by Americans, said: "I was very irritated that the guide could say such things.

"When they saw the comments they were not angry, they just laughed it off.

"I will not hear a bad word said about Americans. They come in their droves and are very appreciative of York and all it has to offer.

"I would even go as far as to say 'God bless America'."

To make his American guests feel at home, Mr Lefebve even puts miniature Stars and Stripes flags on their breakfast tables.

York Tourism Bureau chief Gillian Cruddas last week leapt to the defence of Americans, after the Knowhere Guide web site was featured in the Evening Press, saying they played a significant role in the local economy.

The Knowhere Guide - an unofficial guide to Britain - also contributes to the debate, quoting one Internet user as saying: "Having lived in York for years and in the USA, I can say without doubt that the so-called yanks are infinitely warmer and more hospitable than the vast majority of York natives..."

The Knowhere Guide can be found at www.knowhere.co.uk

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