THE Prince of Wales is to make his second visit to Selby in less than two years.

He will follow in the footsteps of his parents and late grandmother when he arrives at Selby Abbey on Thursday, October 24.

Prince Charles, who this week voiced his concerns on the future of the countryside in a letter to the Prime Minister,

will indulge his passion for architecture by seeing first-hand the restoration work going on at the 11th century Norman building, described as one of the north of England's architectural jewels.

He was last in the area during the November 2000 floods, when he visited flood victims at Barlby and spoke to staff who helped to man the flood incident room at Selby Civic Centre.

Prince Charles, who will be meeting Abbey officials and volunteers, was invited by abbey vicar, the Reverend Keith Jukes.

Officials have launched a ten-year £10 million restoration appeal to repair and renew crumbling stonework.

The first phase, involving the west front, has now been completed and work has just started on phase two, which includes the Latham Chapel and east end.

Prince Charles will also officially open the abbey's new £15,000 visitor trail, featuring video screens, information panels and a new information guide.

About 100,000 leaflets promoting the new tourist trail are currently being distributed to 2,000 outlets in Yorkshire.

Abbey business manager Brian Porter said: "We're delighted that Prince Charles has accepted our invitation.

"It will give a big boost to our new visitors' trail and raise the profile of both the abbey and the restoration appeal."

The Prince will travel to Selby from Ripon, where earlier in the day he is due to be invested as a Freeman of the City at a ceremony at Ripon Cathedral.

Updated: 14:47 Thursday, September 26, 2002