PEOPLE with a passion for all things York are wanted by the city’s official tourism body to become ambassadors for the area.

Visit York has today launched a recruitment drive to find people willing to welcome some of the seven million people who come here each year.

To find suitable candidates, Visit York is holding an open day today from 11am to 4pm for people who would like to take on one of the roles.

Since opening in November, Visit York’s new centre in Museum Street has seen customer numbers rocket by 80 per cent.

Rebecca Francis, the newly appointed visitor centre manager, said: “We know that so many of York’s residents are passionate about their home city.

“We are seeking their help in welcoming York’s visitors and hope to recruit volunteers of all ages, from all walks of life and backgrounds.

“The most important thing is that our volunteers have a real a passion for York.”

In return for committing to a minimum of one full day per week for a minimum three-month period, Visit York said volunteers would receive a range of benefits, including a VIP Pass to visit attractions, the opportunity to attend Visit York events and full training and development.

Anyone aged 16 or over who is interested should contact Julie Kelly on 01904 554457 or email jk@visityork.org