A NEW exhibition telling the story of Durham Cathedral has attracted more than 5,500 people in its first month.

The cathedral’s £10.9 million Open Treasure exhibition, which opened in July, showcases its previously unseen collections and is aimed at helping it maintain its free entry

Dean of Durham, The Very Rev Andrew Tremlett, said: “We are delighted with the number of people who have visited Open Treasure so far and also with the wonderful feedback that we have received from so many of those who have been through this fabulous exhibition experience.

“Our aim was to attract around 60,000 visitors in the first year rising to 120,000 by the end of our 10 year plan. We are therefore delighted that in this inaugural month, figures are ahead of schedule and rising.”

The exhibition, part of which is housed in the 14th century monks’ dormitory, tells the story of the cathedral and the history of Christianity in the North-East.