FOR almost 70 years, York Civic Trust has acted as a guardian of this city's heritage. It is not against progress: but does seek to ensure that what we do to the city today will not be a source of regret tomorrow.

This weekend, the man who has been the Trust's public face - director Peter Brown - steps down.

But David Fraser, who will be taking his place, is well equipped to continue his work. For many years Dr Fraser worked for English Heritage, and set up that organisation's regional office in York.

We wish him well in what is an extremely challenging but important job.