York Minster stoneyard auction and open day
Friday 9 August 2013
If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of York Minster now is your chance as stones go under the hammer at the annual stone auction.
The auction, which takes place on Friday 16thAugust, allows people to buy stone removed from the Minster during restoration works, while at the same time supporting ongoing conservation works at the cathedral.
In addition, those interested in the work of the Minster’s masons, carvers and carpenters can learn more at the annual Stoneyard open day on Friday 9thAugust.
Visitors can meet the specialist craftspeople, visit the on-site workshop, take a guided tour of special areas or buy a ticket to tour the East Front and see the restoration work currently underway.
John David, Master Mason at York Minster, said: “The stone auction offers people a unique chance to own their own piece of the Minster.
“The stones on sale have all been removed from the Minster during restoration projects, when stones which have decayed or are structurally unsound need to be replaced.
“Complete stones removed during these works are recorded in the Minster’s archive records, with a large number of pieces retained by the Minster due to their significance in the archaeological history of the building.
“We can’t store every stone removed from the building, so the surplus will go on sale at the auction to help raise funds to support ongoing conservation works on the Minster.”
Auctioneer Rod Cordingley, of Stephenson and Son, has donated his time to run the auction, which takes place on Friday 16 August at 12 noon in Dean’s Park, behind York Minster. Previews of the stones included in the auction will take place on Thursday 15thfrom 2 pm-4 pm, and Friday 16thfrom 10 am-12 noon.
The Stoneyard open day takes place the week before, on Friday 9thAugust, from 9.30 am-3 pm at the Stoneyard, 4 Deangate. Admission to the Stoneyard is free but donations to York Minster Fund are invited. Tickets need to be purchased for the East Front tours, which can be bought in advance or on the day through the York Minster Box Office or at www.yorkminster.org. Tickets are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.
The Minster will also be open as usual for sightseeing on both days, where visitors can take the opportunity to see some of the most magnificence examples of stonework and carving whilst learning about the largest conservation and restoration project of its kind in Europe.
For more information, visit www.yorkminster.org
For further media information or images, please contact:
Leanne Woodhurst / Pamela Anthony
Tel: 0844 939 0014 ext 2480
Email: leannew@yorkminster.org or pamelas@yorkminster.org
Jay Commins
Tel: 01904 500698
Mob: 07810 546567
Email: jay@pyperyork.co.uk
