Described as 'the hidden gem of Chester', parishioners of St John's, Vicars Lane fear they can no longer afford to keep their doors open to tourists.

With more than 1,000 years of prayer behind it, supporters of Chester's former cathedral are calling on members of the public to take on various roles within the church.

Michael Bartlett, St John's project co-ordinator, said: "We need a number of volunteers to man the church during the day.

"It's a fantastic building and we really want everyone to be aware of it so we can enhance the place.

"The building has much historical resonance with the city, everything from the architecture to the organ having its own story to tell."

Noel Clarke, a core supporter of the project who has been drafted into build a church shop, said: "Every time you walk in you find something new. I fell in love with the place as soon as I walked through the door which isn't like me. Normally it's football or nothing."

Until now the church has relied upon parishioners' donations for any funding but the sums involved are no longer great enough.

The Rector of Chester, the Rev David Chesters, said: "The parish is finding it difficult to balance its books. There's no point mincing words. We need to revolutionise the way we think."

Music and drama are to play a huge role in these revolutionary thoughts. Along with St John's own orchestra providing an income from concerts, a theatre group has been signed for the summer.

Mr Chesters recognises that his ideas, which also include plans for a museum and concert hall, are asking a lot of people. However, he said: "If you think big you get so much more done.

"The time has come to put this place on the map."

Supporting the programme are many organisations from the region including DSGI, Home Furniture Land, Peak Autos and Bobby's Deliveries.

Mr Chesters said of his website provider, Blueplex: "They are pleased and proud to support local communities in the North West."

Mr Bartlett and his team are urging anybody who feels they can spare time and effort to get in contact on 01244 403634.