THANK YOU, KNARESBOROUGH. Although the rain came down most of Saturday there was a steady stream of people visiting the Chapel of Our Lady of the Crag, mostly locals to see for themselves the Knight and the Chapel. A number were surprised at what they found, but all very supportive having seen and heard what the Working Group are trying to achieve. A number asking what needed to be done after the Knight was restored.

Over 40 people attended the ecumenical service and Elizabeth Sewell of St Johns and Father Rupert of Ampleforth (who had last visited the site 55 years ago) assisted Father George from St Mary's. It was dry for most of the service, many unsure whether we had rain or if it was the water blowing off the trees. Carmel Wake sang The Mason's Song written by Philip Bothamley to mark the 600th anniversary. It is an apt and moving piece. The Chapel collection box alone had over £130 in it.

Dr Chris Maunder's talks were also well attended at Knaresborough House and again people were very generous. All enjoyed the Quiz night and a number of local businesses had shown their support with very generous raffle prizes. In addition to a gift, Mother Shipton's had told us they would suggest to visitors reaching the Low Bridge side that they walk a little further to the Chapel.

St Mary's School held a 'dress down day', some of them visited the Chapel on Saturday to see what it was about. (Any other school, group or individual wishing to offer support should contact Dr Chris Maunder (Chairperson of the Group) on 01423 861584.) The total figure for the day is not yet known and Chris will write to the paper with the exact figure and the Groups thanks in the next couple of weeks. It looks as if we may have raised almost 10% of the cost of the restoration in one day and with the support shown on Saturday it is felt the £10,000 total is achievable, especially with the possibility of grants from Renaissance Knaresborough and Harrogate Borough Council.

The Chapel will be open on Sundays between 2.00pm and 4.00pm, weather permitting as the steps become very slippy when wet (another job) and it is planned to open between 10.00am and 4.00pm on the 10th of August to allow more time for visitors. If groups wish to visit on other days this can be arranged by contacting 01423 861584 or 01423 866080. The Group will keep you updated through the Knaresborough Post.