THEY may not have been doing much singing, but Herald Angels were certainly in evidence at the weekend.

More than 6,000 people are thought to have visited the third Festival of Angels, in York, on Saturday and Sunday.

The festival was devised to bring visitors to The Quarter of Swinegate, but has become an attraction in its own right.

The Parade of Angels is one of the highlights, where participants dream up an imaginative costume for a carnival with a heavenly theme.

But the entertainment lasts all day, with ice sculptures lining the streets and bars and restaurants serving food and drink while snow machines ensure a festive atmosphere, no matter what the weather.

Yesterday, customers at the Slug and Lettuce could even chip a piece from the bar too keep their drinks cool - served from a counter made of ice.

Stone masons from the York Minster workshops were also giving lessons in sculpting, and a thriller, based on imaginary happenings at the festival, has gone on sale to help cover the cost of the event.

"The weather wasn't kind to us but it didn't keep people away," said spokeswoman Magdalena Chavez. "The festival offers something for the whole family - children can be part of the parade or the workshops, while parents shop or enjoy a drink and a meal.

"It has been a fantastic event this year and it has been great to see so many people enjoying themselves."