The Friends of St Albans Cathedral are celebrating their 75th anniversary with an evening of musical entertainment.

An independent charity, the group supports the cathedral and is responsible for many recent improvements to the building and its surroundings.

The Friends originated in the Middle Ages, when benefactors donated money and gifts to the medieval abbey.

But with the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539, the Friends organisation ceased too, and was not re-established until 400 years later in 1949.

To mark the anniversary, a candlelit medieval-inspired revelry will be held at the cathedral at 7pm on Saturday, October 12.

Tickets cost £20 and are available from the cathedral website at stalbanscathedral.org, by phoning the box office on 01727 890290 or in person at the cathedral shop during opening hours.

Friends' membership secretary Hazel Ireson said: "We are planning a wonderful evening of musical entertainments, to include dancers, singers, trumpeters, and a masque play, as well as a reception on arrival.

"If our Cathedral of St Albans is important to you, and you would like to play your part in its preservation for the generations to come, then you are most warmly invited.

"During the evening you will find out about the work of the Friends and how you too can contribute to the organisation’s work."

The Countess of Verulam, who is the Friends' patron, said: "The Friends are deeply involved in the life of St Albans Cathedral, not just enhancing the building but contributing to what makes it such an attractive and meaningful place of worship and a wonderful tourist destination."

The extensive landscaping in Sumpters Yard and the interior wall painting illuminations were supported by the Friends.

They also financially support the annual Alban Pilgrimage procession through the town centre.

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Hazel added: "You might be surprised to know that just keeping the flag flying on top of the great Norman tower costs £1,000 a year.

"The cathedral faces huge annual bills, and the Friends are delighted to be able to help out when we are asked."

Since 1999 members have donated more than £1m to support the cathedral.