THE Dean of York paid a return visit to one of the region's fast-growing attractions yesterday.

The Very Reverend Raymond Furnell was last at the Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington eight years ago, when he cut the first turf for the chapel.

Yesterday, he returned on the anniversary of that ceremony to unveil a plaque commemorating the event.

"As the Dean is retiring this month, this is a fitting manner in which to remember an important role in the museum's development," said a spokesman.

"The chapel plays a vital role in the life of the museum, with regular squadron, Remembrance and carol services taking place in the building, which has its own unique charm."

Also at the unveiling was museum chaplain, the Reverend Leonard Rivett, and the attraction's founding chairman, Rachel Semlyen.

Ms Semlyen, who with a group of volunteers set up the museum in the early 1980s when Mr Rivett was Rector of Elvington, has recently rejoined the board of trustees.

Museum director Ian Reed said: "Although Rachel has always played an active part in the museum, for family reasons she relinquished her trustee duties a few years ago. We are delighted she is back on the board, ready for the exciting times ahead."