A TREE planting ceremony has been held to celebrate a milestone anniversary for a charity which works to help York Minster preserve its past and inspire future generations.

A new cherry tree was planted beside the Queen’s Path at the Minster on Tuesday by Graeme Robertson, the chairman of Friends of York Minster, to mark the charity’s 90th anniversary.

The Friends of York Minster was set up by Lionel George Bridges Justice Ford, Dean of York from 1928 until 1932.

The charity’s honorary secretary, Meg Shorland-Ball, said: “Today we have over 2,000 members who get involved in a busy programme of outings, lectures, social events and holidays. We send out regular newsletters and we produce an annual report.”

The charity has funded a wide range of projects at the Minster this year including a grant of £205,000 for the conservation of the Penitencer’s Window – one of three 14th century windows in the Minster’s North Nave aisle.