Fire chiefs say they have rehearsed detailed fire fighting plans for Canterbury Cathedral in the event of a blaze like the one which badly damaged Notre Dame this week.

In just the last six months, tactical fire fighting operations for the world famous historic building have also been reviewed.

"All fire officers have undergone training specific to Canterbury Cathedral, concentrated on a roof space fire and salvaging important artifacts, which are two issues facing our French counterparts," said assistant director of resilience and Channel Tunnel, Lee Rose.

The service also works closely with cathedral staff on the plan in the event of an outbreak and in Canterbury, like other heritage sites, tests procedures and rehearses emergency scenarios.

The fire at Notre Dame is suspected to be connected with renovation work and fire safety is of particular focus during the restoration work currently be carried out at Canterbury Cathedral.

Its chief constable and fire manager, Jim Morley added: “The safety of everyone at the cathedral is always at the forefront of our minds and is under constant review.

“We work closely with the fire brigade and other emergency services to ensure they have safe access to deal with any issues, including exercises to remove the cathedral’s priceless artefacts to safety.

“There are also well-controlled procedures to check all external contractors and others on the construction areas.”

Following the Paris blaze, the Dean of Canterbury, the Very Revd Robert Willis said: "Our hearts and minds are with the people of Paris and the whole of France in light of the unimaginably tragic fire at Cathédrale Notre-Dame De Paris.

“We pray for the whole Christian world who suffer this loss of such a significant holy place, as well as those who love the cathedral: all of whom will continue to be the heart, mind and soul of its community.”

A special chapel has been set up inside Canterbury Cathedral for those who wish to pray or reflect on the sad scene in Paris.