A SHAKE-UP of jobs at York Minster has left 32 part-time visitor reception staff facing possible redundancy.

The news comes following a decision to introduce a new visitor welcome team for the hundreds of thousands of sightseers who visit the cathedral every year.

The proposal is to replace the Minster's team of 32 part-time visitor reception staff with ten new full-time and eight new part-time posts of 'Minster Hosts', along with three duty supervisor posts.

When consultations with those affected are complete, the present staff would be encouraged to apply for the new posts or for re-deployment in other roles if possible.

Redundancy packages would be offered to staff not wishing to apply for the new roles, or whose applications were unsuccessful.

The Dean of York, the Very Reverend Keith Jones, said: “York Minster is one of the country's outstanding visitor attractions.

“We want to offer the best possible service to our visitors, and in doing this we are committed to making necessary changes with care and with openness.

“On the one hand we have to do all we can to balance the books in these difficult times, on the other hand, as a church we are called to show the greatest possible care to all those who visit or worship here, and to those who work here too.

“This is why we will be consulting with representatives elected by the affected staff to find the best way forward.”

A spokesperson for York Minster said the reduction of the number of part-time posts would enable the Minster to better plan for the seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers and to make significant savings in administration costs.

He said: “The new Minster Hosts would reflect the expectations of 21st century visitors, engaging with them and overseeing their welfare throughout their visit.”