It's already giving Gretna Green a run for its money on the marriage ceremony stakes - now York is being dubbed the "hen-night capital of the country".

The city's tourism bureau announced today that it receives up to five inquiries a week from future brides wanting to spend their "final fling in the civilised city of York".

Marketing assistant William Lake said that since the beginning of January the city has been besieged by hundreds of "hens" - groups of up to 30 girls, who have travelled from as far as London to party within York's historic walls.

" It's the ideal place because everything is close by; there's a good selection of pubs, clubs and accommodation - what more do you need?" he said. "Most people will come for the day so we usually suggest a few places they can visit, such as York Brewery where they will be taken on a guided tour - lots of beer and all that."

He added that York is benefiting greatly from the out-of-town visitors, who are spending "large sums of cash" during the city's quiet times of the year, such as January to April.

Meanwhile, North Yorkshire County Council is bidding to become the wedding capital of the country.

A huge photograph of A-level student Viv Garnett, dressed as a bride, will be taken to wedding fairs to promote the region as an ideal wedding location.

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