THE choir of one of the region's great seats of worship is to benefit from a major financial boost.

A cheque for £17,000 from the Friends of Cathedral Music (FCM) will be presented to the York Minster choir tonight.

The money will be used towards an endowment of an FCM Choristership.

Canon Precentor at York Minster, the Reverend Canon Jeremy Fletcher, said: "It is absolutely fantastic that FCM has awarded us a grant of £17,000 for the long-term support of choristerships and we are grateful indeed.

"It goes alongside all sorts of more specific and unseen support offered by local members. Long may it continue."

The FCM's representative for the York diocese, Michael Wiles, said: "The Minster, as with all cathedrals, strives to keep up the unique tradition of cathedral music which is part of this country's priceless heritage and one of the things we do well.

"The FCM strives to support all our cathedrals in two ways: by our presence at services and events, and, of course, financially."

The FCM has given almost £1.25m to British choirs since its formation just over 50 years ago.