WHILE sitting in the splendour of York Minster on a very sunny day, I couldn't help but notice the number of tourists pouring in.

While some people make voluntary donations as they step inside, a lot do not and that is their choice.

During a six-minute spell, I counted 84 people.

The upkeep of the Minster must be quite costly, so would it not be a good idea to make a small charge, say £1 for adults and 50p for children?

Of course York residents could be allowed in free, the same as at the Castle Museum.

This would swell the coffers and enable vital restoration work to be carried out and keep the Minster in the glory it deserves.

Colin Henson,

Moorcroft Road,

Woodthorpe,

York.

Updated: 10:07 Thursday, August 23, 2001