It is then that the first record is available of the employment of Thomas Marshall as a watchman, which lasted until 1854 at the salary of forty-one pounds and twelve shillings per year.

In addition to their policing role, the officers are the custodians of over 380 sets of keys, provide information and directions to tourists, oversee fire safety, and security for the movement of cash around the Minster.

[7] In February 2017 it was reported that the Minster Police would be "given back powers of arrest after 80 years" by ITV News.

The BBC News website reported that: "Powers were returned to the force following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Chapter of York and the Chief Constable of North Yorkshire [Police].

Any arrested people are handed over to North Yorkshire Police for transport and processing and the force will be responsible for the submission of prosecution files.

[11] Officers can also wear a stab vest with "YORK MINSTER POLICE" written on the back, to easily identify them as such.