Volunteers from across the diocese are being recruited as ‘Festival Makers’ for an ambitious five-day event taking place at Ripon Cathedral from 28 April – 2 May this year.
‘Ripon Cathedral Revealed’ is described as a ‘ fantastic festival of flowers, music, spirituality, food and drink’ celebrating the life of the Cathedral and a showcasing the work and preparation that goes on behind the scenes.
Events will include the well-established Bank Holiday Monday Beer Festival, a Flower and Jazz preview evening, musical events, a food festival, children's activities, a carousel, opportunities to play the organ or tour the Bell Tower, history lectures, a Festival Songs of Praise, together with displays and workshops.
Now, ‘Festival Makers’ are now being sought, and the Cathedral is looking for anyone who can spend around two hours at a time helping the Festival go with a swing. From running the Box Office and selling tickets, to helping with refreshments, or baking a cake, to being a steward on hand to answer questions or to get involved in specific parts of the festival, there will be a wide range of opportunities to help out.
Volunteers will also be needed to offer to read the Bible in the Cathedral with 72 opportunities to read short 15 minute passages throughout the weekend. And the Cathedral will be bedecked with Yorkshire Roses and anyone who can make and contribute a white rose of any material is invited to take part.
Full details of all the roles needed for the Festival are on the Cathedral website here.
The Dean of Ripon, the Very Revd John Dobson says, "We are looking for a huge number of volunteers to make this Cathedral Festival a success. As well as the opportunity to be at the centre of what is promised to be an exciting and unique five days, Festival Makers awill also be offered discounted tickets for friends and family, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends."
Anyone who would like to volunteer should phone or email Molly Barrs at the Cathedral office Molly Barrs in the Cathedral Office (E: mollybarrs@riponcathedral.org.uk; T: 01765 603583).