NEW light has been shed on the Nativity in York where a stained glass window depicting Christ's birth has been uncovered for the first time in 30 years.

The York Museums Trust had always been aware that there was coloured glass behind displays which went up in 1975, when The York Story exhibition opened at the old St Mary's Church, in Castlegate.

But as time passed, people forgot both the rich beauty of the window and the story it told - until the display boards came down a few days ago.

"We're delighted with the discovery. Moving the exhibition gives a better idea of the original architectural design of the building and reveals its overall magnificence," said a trust spokeswoman.

"You could see the window from outside but, with no light shining through it, no one could see exactly what it illustrated.

"It seems uncanny it shows the Nativity and it has been uncovered just before Christmas."