PEOPLE have the chance to follow in the tradition of the Benedictine monks at Chester Cathedral.

The monks offered a warm welcome to worshippers and visitors alike.

The cathedral points out this tradition is maintained today by hundreds of volunteers who help in the day-to-day life of the historic site.

But more are needed and an upcoming open morning will highlight the opportunities on offer.

“Perhaps you’re retired and are looking for something rewarding to fill your spare time, maybe you’re looking to develop marketable skills for a new career or have professional skills that are currently unused,” said hospitality and welcome director Andrew Backhouse.

“Many of our volunteers have a few hours on their hands each week and just want to ‘put something back’.

“Working alongside our clergy and paid staff, volunteers enable us to share this wonderful place – its story and the building – with many thousands of people.”

The cathedral is looking for volunteers in a variety of areas, including welcoming visitors, helping in the shop and the library, singing in the nave choir, assisting the vergers and stewarding visitors on the new tower adventure tours.

“If you feel you’ve got the appropriate skills and you’d like to discover more about the range of volunteering opportunities at Chester Cathedral then we’d like to meet you,” added Mr Backhouse.

The cathedral has set up a volunteer open morning at 10am on Saturday, July 9, when people will be able to hear from existing volunteers and cathedral staff and have the chance to ask questions.

Those interested in going along should email Andrew Backhouse via andrew.backhouse@chestercathedral.com or volunteercoordinator@chestercathedral.com.