VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help raise the Chevin Cross.

The striking, tall wooden monument has been a feature of Otley’s landscape at Easter-time since 1968. At least 50 people are needed to help pull the cross into position on Surprise View, at the top of the Chevin, at 9.30am on Saturday, March 21. Once in position it usually stands for four weeks – but this year will remain in place for considerably longer.

Otley Methodist Church secretary John Burland explained: “This time the cross will stay on top of the Chevin for ten weeks, until Pentecost, to tie in with a street prayer initiative taking place during April and May.”

The first Chevin Cross, in 1968, stood 36ft tall - but was blown down by high winds on its first night. It was rebuilt with timbers salvaged from the IRA-bombed Arndale Centre.