RIPON Cathedral's £3m development campaign is launching a patrons' scheme.

The cathedral, which is refusing to charge admission fees to England's oldest minster founded in 672, asked supporters how they would like to help and they suggested the idea.

It will be launched in October and potential members will be invited to attend four special events a year and receive a quarterly magazine.

Individual membership will cost £250, joint membership £350.

Trustee chairman of the development campaign Tom Ramsden said by becoming patrons people will be giving the cathedral invaluable financial support. Details about the patrons' scheme are available by calling (01765) 603583.