CREATIVE youngsters have put their computer skills to the test by designing a digital York Minster.

Children currently on half-term holiday across the city used the best-selling video game Minecraft to create their own version of the cathedral.

Minecraft - the second best-selling video game of all time after Tetris - challenges players to use textured cubes to build their own structures and the 3D construction game was put to good use to give the Minster a new twist.

The winning designs will be projected on to a big screen inside the Minster until tomorrow.

Pupils who dropped into the special sessions were also given the chance to design a cathedral in Lego and decorate a cardboard Minster den.

Alex O’Donnell, learning officer at York Minster, said: “Minecraft has been hugely popular with gamers for many years so we thought it would be a great way to get youngsters thinking about the cathedral’s architecture and to give them the chance to try their hand at being a master mason.

“Along with the Lego and den making activities, we’re looking forward to seeing what our mini-master masons create!”

The Minecraft saw children as young as six take part, while the Lego and den making activities saw four-year-olds showing off their artistic side.

Other activities during the half-term holidays include family-friendly discovery tours from 11.30am to 12.15pm today and tomorrow.

Participants can discover fun facts about the cathedral, from how many blue whales can fit inside the Minster to why the Archbishop of York might wear a wet suit.

The guided tours depart from the Children’s Chapel and are suitable for children aged five and over.

Both the master mason sessions and guided tours are free with general admission. Admission tickets are valid for 12 months and family tickets start at £10 for up to four children visiting with one adult.

Admission to York Minster is free for York residents with valid proof of address or a York Card.