A WOMAN who has been a driving force behind Ripon Cathedral's efforts to raise millions of pounds to secure its future has been forced to step down because of a wider role in tourism.

Because of her recent appointment as chairman of Yorkshire Tourist Board, Judith Donovan believes there could be a conflict of interest with her new role and continuing as a trustee of the successful Ripon Cathedral development campaign and chairman of its executive committee.

Cathedral sub-dean Canon Michael Glanville Smith, writing in the cathedral's May newsletter, says the chapter is "extremely grateful" for all Ms Donovan has done for the campaign.

During her involvement, the cathedral has completed the task of a new nave roof, the music foundation has received £25,000 while fund raising for restoration of the central tower is now under way.

Canon Glanville Smith said: "Judith has also been instrumental in raising the profile of the campaign by initiating a series of events in the cathedral and further afield. She played a key role in raising thousands from two black tie dinners in the nave, which saw pews making way for dining tables."

Successful Christmas fairs in the cathedral and events at the House of Lords and Lambeth Palace helped to spread the campaign's word far beyond the Broad Acres, helping to widen and consolidate its support.

Ms Donovan, described as one of the most colourful figures on the Yorkshire business scene, lives in a Ripon village.

Her new role as chairman of the Yorkshire Tourist Board is regarded as one of the most powerful tourism posts in the regions where tourism is estimated to be worth £4bn a year.

Eight years ago Ms Donovan was named Yorkshire Woman of the Year. She is chairwoman of the Northern Region of Postwatch and a director of the Northern Ballet Theatre as well as trustee of the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust.