MORE than 2,000 residents have signed up for a free admission pass to York Minster.

The historic decision to charge visitors to get into the cathedral comes into effect tomorrow as a way of reducing its huge budget deficit.

Efforts by the Dean and Chapter to close the Minster Library to cut costs failed following a massive public outcry.

Entry to the cathedral will now be through the South Transept with visitors asked to pay £4.50 at two special desks.

Those wishing to pray or light a candle in memory of loved ones will not be charged.

Visitors can also enter the Minster free of charge when it first opens, between 7am and 9am, and between 4.45pm and 6.45pm.

Extra signs have been installed at the entrance explaining the new system.

Minster spokesman Brigadier Peter Lyddon said he was "very encouraged" by the response of residents in claiming free permits.

"Local people are delighted by the pass system," he said.

"Those who still haven't got a pass can still come into the Minster and claim one. "All we need is some proof of residency.

"The atmosphere will continue to be relaxed at the Minster."

Leading Minster campaigner Professor Philip Stell said he was concerned that swapping the "classic" Minster entrance of the Great West Door with the South Transept would lose some of its splendour.

But Mr Lyddon said it was "purely a trial" and "may or may not work". He said: "We felt there was a danger the paying desks would rut up the West End."

The Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope has said he is "inherently opposed" to charging, but accepts it is the only short-term solution to stopping the Minster losing more than £500,000-a-year.

The Dean and Chapter have promised that the decision would be reversed in future if there was an upturn in investment income.

Under the charging scheme, under-16s will go free, with a £3 concessionary rate. Toilets will be provided as part of improvements.

Updated: 10:47 Friday, August 01, 2003