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Financial Reality
Published: on 22nd April 2003 by Eleanor Course in Press Releases
York Minster, one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Britain, will begin charging for entry this summer because a voluntary donation scheme has not raised necessary revenue.
The Minster joins other cathedrals such as Canterbury, Lincoln and Westminster Abbey who have been charging for several years.
The Dean of York, the Very Reverend Raymond Furnell, says the Minster has no alternative if it is to overcome a £600,000 deficit which threatens the long-term upkeep and development of Yorkshire's most famous building.
Speaking today from the United States where he is on a fund raising visit for the Minster, The Dean said, "It is a very difficult decision but we really have no alternative. We are talking about visitors and tourists. Worshippers and pilgrims will continue to have free access for regular services, events and private prayer".
Since May 2002 the Minster has attempted to encourage visitors to make a realistic donation to prevent full charging. Whilst income has gone up - less than 25% of the 1.3 million visitors a year are contributing. Over 75% do not contribute at all.
The war in Iraq has decreased the number of overseas visitors, particularly from the United States, impacting further on the reductions caused by foot and mouth and September 11th.
Parishes in the Diocese of York and York City residents will be able to apply for an entry card which will allow them special access to the Minster.
Final prices for entry will be announced in the next few weeks.
Steve Hemming, the Visitor Services Manager said, "We are concerned to improve the level of service offered to visitors once charging is introduced and will be looking at ways of enhancing the experience of a York Minster visit".