RIPON Cathedral, at the centre of worship in the city for more than 1,300 years, has launched a campaign to secure its long-term funding.

The cathedral has established a development campaign trust to spearhead the scheme, being led by the minster's high steward, Tom Ramsden.

Financial backing will be secured from trusts, local and regional businesses and individuals in a bid to build up finances.

Dean John Metheun said it would encourage long-term sustainable support and a close association between donors and the cathedral, in a rolling programme of fundraising.

Areas earmarked for a cash boost are the cathedral's music, with emphasis on choral scholarships, fabric and essential repairs to the building, and reopening of Thorpe Prebend House, close to the cathedral.

The campaign director will be Rory Wardroper, who has lived and worked in Yorkshire since 1979.

He will work on the project three days a week, with two daysat Tennant's Auctioneers, Leyburn, where he has been head of marketing and development for the past five years.

Margaret Hammond, who has worked for estate agents Feathers, Smailes and Scales, in Harrogate, since 1994, will be Mr Wardroper's assistant.

A campaign office is being established in the wing of the Old Deanery.

Dean Metheun said: "By approaching financial challenges in this way, we believe there is a golden opportunity to unlock widespread support that exists for the cathedral, its work and mission for the future."