THOUSANDS of people flocked to the Close on Saturday to explore the cathedral and the surrounding attractions.

The cathedral, Mompesson House, Arundells, Sarum College, The Rifles (Berkshire and Wiltshire) museum and Salisbury and South Wiltshire museum all threw open their doors for the open day.

There was lots of do, with morris men entertaining the crowds outside the West Front, demonstrations of flower arranging by Michael Bowyer, masonry and weapon displays.

Mark Elcomb, chapter clerk at the cathedral, said: “Without doubt it was a great day and the sheer number of people who came through our doors proved that.

“It was marvellous to welcome overseas visitors from many different countries - who couldn’t believe their luck to find so much going on.”