PRESTON has taken the city's new minster under its wing and local groups are clambering to use it.

The minster, in Church Street, was rededicated on Saturday, June 7, following the revamp which transformed the historic but run-down St John's Church.

Now it is fully open, with many community groups using it for meetings, drama, presentations and exhibitions.

Canon Martyn Griffiths revealed that the venue already has a number of bookings for 2004.

He said: "The whole idea of everything we have done is that this space must be flexible. That's why we had the pews removed, and underfloor heating so there aren't any pipes on display."

The minster was closed for two-and-a-half years during its overhaul. The building's acoustics have been improved in the revamp, and only the altar area is consecrated, so the centre of the minster's large hall can be used for concerts and performances.

The first exhibition at the minster is a charity art display by Blackpool artist Alan Cavanagh. Doors are open from 11am to 4pm until Saturday, June 28, and visitors can admire the church, listen to classical music and select a picture.

Michael Lockwood, of the Preston Arts Society, said: "The minster is a very dynamic space for music and art. I wish them well."