An £800,000 appeal has been launched to save the historic spire of Lancaster Cathedral.
The 'Save Our Spire' campaign has begun after warnings that without necessary restoration, the 240ft Victorian spire at the Grade II* listed cathedral is at genuine risk of collapse.
Serious deterioration has been identified in the spire and rebuilding work will be needed.
"For generations, our cathedral has stood as a symbol of faith, hope and community," said the Rt Rev Paul Swarbrick, Bishop of Lancaster.
"Rising above Lancaster’s skyline, the cathedral spire has stood witness to the place where the martyrs received their crown, marked important moments for both the city and the diocese and served as a treasured landmark for the faithful in the diocese, the cathedral parish and the City of Lancaster.
"Today, this historic structure is in urgent need of repair. While Victorians built things to last, years of exposure to wind, rain, and changing weather have taken their toll, and essential restoration work is now required to preserve the spire for future generations.
"Without these repairs, the spire is in genuine risk of collapse.
"I am asking for your help. The cathedral parish has already secured £200,000 of the projected £800,000 we require. The Friends of the Cathedral have begun an ambitious fundraising campaign encompassing the parish, the City of Lancaster and now the diocese.
"On this Feast of the Dedication of the Cathedral, I would like to ask you to play a part in saving the cathedral for generations to come.
"Every donation, no matter the size, will contribute directly to safeguarding this magnificent heritage asset and ensuring it continues to inspire generations to come.
"St Peter’s Church, which became the cathedral, was built by subscription. Parishioners and others gave both large and small amounts.
"By 1859, a generation after the Catholic Emancipation Act removed the legal restrictions long been imposed, those donations meant Lancaster had a church the city and the faithful were proud to call their own.
"By supporting our appeal, each of you is not only helping to repair stone and structure. You are preserving a place of worship, the building at the head of the diocese, a piece of our shared Catholic history in the North West and a beacon of the City of Lancaster.
"Together, we can ensure that our cathedral spire continues to stand proudly for many years ahead.
"Please give generously and be part of preserving our diocesan legacy. Thank you for your support."
More details on the appeal can be found HERE.
The church, built by Sir Edward Paley, was consecrated in 1859. It was a Roman Catholic parish church then became a cathedral in 1924.
Pioneering Morecambe school eco-garden bears fruit ahead of Apple Day
Emergency services called to M6 at Lancaster after crash
Lancaster City Juniors score donation from housebuilder
Lancaster charity report calls for better energy customer communication
Crews tackle house fire in Lancaster village
Have your say on plans to tackle anti-social behaviour in Lancaster and Morecambe area
Man sprayed in face with 'barbecue lighter fluid' during Lancaster Post Office robbery
Residents invited to shape safety improvements on Morecambe coastal route
Police recover stolen quad bike from Lancaster district in Cheshire
Fundraiser launched to support Lancaster Chinese New Year Festival
Lancaster man to run Manchester Half Marathon in honour of his parents
Lancaster young artists invited to design Mayor’s official Christmas card
Future of primary school near Lancaster under consultation over falling pupil numbers
Lancaster city centre store hit with closure order
Mental health nurse role helps children at Royal Lancaster Infirmary get support sooner
Dog ban on Morecambe beaches lifted until May
Next chapter for Williamson Park café redevelopment begins
Couple ‘absolutely heartbroken’ after announcing departure from popular Morecambe Bay pub
Lancaster village set for royal visit
INTERVIEWS: Pride in Place officially opens offices in West End of Morecambe
