Major London history exhibition coming in June

By Stefano Ambrogi

LONDON (Reuters) - Sick of tales of economic misery? London Mayor Boris Johnson says he has the perfect antidote: immerse yourself in 2,000 years of the capital's history and help kick the recession.

Unveiling a series of events planned in June called the "Story of London," Johnson said they were pitched at Londoners as much as at tourists.

"It will be a kaleidoscopic exposition of the city's past, present and future," he told reporters at Henry VIII's favourite royal residence, Hampton Court Palace.

"It will bring together some superb attractions for visitors and Londoners, who will also be able to 'revisit' their city with fresh eyes," he added.

"We have a celebration of this city's amazing ability to adapt and to reinvent itself and it's vital to remember London has been through tough times many times before," Johnson said.

Highlights include the re-enactment of a Tudor river pageant with a full regal flotilla marking the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's coronation; jousting; historic walks and dozens of events linked to popular music and culture.

Historian Simon Schama is amongst a range of experts from the Museum of London, English Heritage and the National Gallery who are advising the organisers.

The Conservative mayor, who took office last May, said the festivities had two aims.