THE time of Evensong at York Minster will change from 5pm to 5.30pm on Mondays to Saturdays, starting from next Monday.

The time of services on Sundays will not be altered.

The change is to allow more time in the school day at the Minster School, which is attended by the choristers. The longer day will mean that the school will be able to widen and extend its curriculum, and ensure that the choristers get a proper break between the school day and Evensong.

The Precentor, Canon Jeremy Fletcher, said: "The school curriculum simply needs more time, and the later service time will give the chance for more rest and better food for our young singers. We ask a lot of our choristers, and their families, and believe that they gain much in return. Not only is there support for schooling, but the experience of being a part of the life of the Minster and the unparalleled opportunities to sing in a host of settings make up for some early starts and late finishes."

The change also means an alteration in the last entry time for people visiting the Minster. Unless visitors want to attend Evensong, the final entry time will be 5pm.

Updated: 09:58 Monday, August 29, 2005