For sale: Blazing parts of Minster’s history

The remnants of ornate carved bosses and ceiling ribs, preserved in storage for three decades, and dating back to the 14th century, will be auctioned at the Minster, alongside stone removed from the building during restoration work.

Master mason John David worked at the Minster during the period of the fire and the restoration, and said although he was “very sad” to see the pieces go, he was happy to share such an important piece of the building’s history.

Each piece had been carefully analysed and recorded for its historic value.

Mr David said: “You get to know these pieces of wood and stone. One of the bosses you can clearly see a face, and in others you can still see the paint.”

The Minster has auctioned surplus stone for the last three years, but this is the first time wood damaged in the fire has been put up. Funds raised in the auction will be put back into the Minster restoration fund.

Mr David said: “Hopefully we can raise a few thousand pounds towards the fabric of the Minster ad bring a lot of enjoyment to the people who buy them.”

Tonight a service at the Minster will mark the fire, which started at 2.30am on July 9, 1984.

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