WINCHESTER Cathedral opens its doors to the public at the annual open evening next Tuesday.

The public has a chance to grab a behind the scenes look at the great church, the second longest in Europe after St Peter's in Rome.

The nave will be cleared of chairs so visitors can get a feel for how it would have looked in the Middle Ages.

The event starts with Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir at 5.30pm and activities and displays run from 6.30-8.30pm.

There will also be a short recital by the Boy Choristers at 7.30pm.

Entry is free.

Much of its work is hidden from view, so this is the ideal chance to find out what makes it a living community.
There will be a display focussing on the current conservation programme of the 12th century Winchester Bible, which is currently not fully available to view during that work, but there is a special temporary exhibition showcasing one of the four volumes itself.
The Cathedral’s curator will be on hand with images and explanations about the work taking place.
The public can meet the stonemasonry team who continue a centuries-old tradition, and those who look after the vestments and adorn the Cathedral for services through the year.
There are also activities for Children, displays from the Friends of the Cathedral, music department, the head gardener, and other groups within the organization who make this great church tick.
For those who cannot go along on the night, the chairs will remain out of the Nave until February 3