A SONGMAN who died in a hanging tragedy had been set to lose his place in York Minster's choir, it emerged today.

Roderick Neal was devastated at the prospect of losing a major part of his life, said friend and fellow songman Gary Griffiths.

It has also emerged that the Minster planned to offer Mr Neal alternative work, but details were still being finalised at the time of his death.

Mr Griffiths spoke out after the Evening Press recently reported how his friend, "Rodders", had been suffering vocal difficulties before his death in April.

Master of Music Philip Moore referred to Mr Neal's problems in an article in the Minster newsletter, but he also paid tribute to the songman's work in the choir, which he said had been marked by total devotion.

Mr Griffiths claimed the article had not told the full story. He alleged that, while Roderick had been suffering some vocal difficulties, largely because of nerves brought on by difficult working relationships, he had been taking steps to remedy them with his singing teacher.

Mr Griffiths said his friend had been devastated at the prospect of leaving the choir. "He knew that come August of this year, a major part of his life would be gone."

Mr Griffiths revealed that he had walked out of his own job on the day it was announced to the choir that Roderick had died. The announcement was made hours before the choir had been due to sing at the Queen Mother's Memorial Service.

Mr Griffiths said he had already been planning to leave the choir for another job, but had left immediately after hearing the news. He had returned only once to the Minster to attend the funeral.

The Minster's Chapter Steward, Peter Lydden, said Mr Neal and the Minster had been aware that vocal problems meant it was unlikely he would be able to continue in the choir, although no decision had been taken.

But he said Mr Neal had also been aware that the Minster was trying to find him alternative work in the library.

Updated: 11:58 Monday, August 12, 2002