SATURDAY AUGUST 29TH - Publicity

From York Press:

York women take their places on fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square, London

9:32am Saturday 29th August 2009

By Richard Catton

VISITORS to London’s Trafalgar Square got to hear about the delights of York when the empty fourth plinth played host to an enthusiastic resident of the city.

Lynn Harper, 67, took to the plinth as part of the ongoing art project by sculptor Antony Gormley, where people are given an hour to perform in front above the crowds of the famous square.

Lynn used her hour of fame on Thursday morning to tuck into a breakfast of Yorkshire produce before telling visitors about all the free things they can experience in York, such as the famous walls, art gallery, parks and the Minster.

The former Minster tour guide said she wanted to be part of an art project and has previously worked with Mr Gormley on a project in Newcastle.

She said: “I decided to spend some time talking about the wonderful things visitors can experience in York for free, as my slot on the plinth comes at a time when people are watching what they spend, and in particular for families, it’s important that they feel they can still enjoy a day out on a budget.

“I think York is a great city to visit and I’m keen to share this with others.”

In all, 2,400 applicants have been randomly selected to stand on the plinth for an hour over the 100-day period, including York dancer Sam Lawrence, who performed Island Time yesterday, at 5pm.

Following their performances, next month will see 60-year-old York resident Rita Leeman take to the plinth on September 26 at 4am. As founder of the York Human Givens Centre, Rita’s hour will be a “celebration of families”, when she will talk about the different “families” in her life, of which York plays a big part.

The two women have appeared with the backing of Visit York, the city’s official tourism body.

Visit York chief executive Gillian Cruddas said: “We’re delighted to be supporting both Lynn and Rita as they take part in this fantastic project, and we’re proud of the fact that both women wanted to talk about York as part of their performance. “This is an excellent example of the modern and creative opportunities we have available to spread the word about what our fabulous city has to offer.”