A CONSERVATION watchdog has launched a major membership drive to help it protect York's heritage through the 21st century.

York Civic Trust wants to double its membership to 2,000 by next year.

But it also wants a broader membership base so it can represent all sections of the community, young as well as old.

It has invited various professions and organisations to put forward ambassadors who are prepared to champion its cause.

"For the sake of the city and its future, it is essential that York Civic Trust increases and broadens its membership base," said membership committee chairman Adam Sinclair.

"The stronger and more representative we are, the more effective we become."

He said that under the former leadership of the late John Shannon, who had retired, it had been run almost single-handedly. But times had changed and no individual was able to devote so much time now.

The trust gave a strong voice to promote the conservation of York's unique historic fabric, unfettered by political or commercial constraints.

It also gave grants to enhance the city, for example for the refurbishment of the Mansion House, and took a lead on major initiatives, for example the closure of Deangate to traffic.

Mr Sinclair said the trust had already made great advances in attracting younger members with the launch a couple of years ago of Young York Civic Trust - the first of its kind in the country - which encourages young people to care for their environment.

He said the new membership campaign had started well with a reception at one of the trust's historic properties, Fairfax House in Castlegate, attended by about 60 people including school heads and university representatives.

He hoped the reception alone, which was addressed by several speakers including Look North presenter Harry Gration and York council leader Steve Galloway, would result in 20 per cent increase in membership numbers.

Anyone interested in joining the trust should phone 01904 655543, email peterbrown@fairfaxhouse.co.uk, or write to Peter Brown at Fairfax House, Castlegate, York Y01 9RN.

:: Major issues on which York Civic Trust has played a leading role

Opposed Coppergate Riverside re-development scheme

Proposed closure of Deangate to traffic

Helped fund refurbishment of Mansion House

Raised concerns over size and scale of massive new flats schemes

Updated: 10:06 Friday, April 08, 2005