Canterbury Cathedral’s 300-strong workforce has been invited to apply for voluntary redundancy - as it faces losses of £3 million amid the coronavirus pandemic.

It comes as the city landmark prepares to overhaul its world-renowned music offering in a bid to save more money.

The music review, which is set to take place in the autumn, has been prompted by the retirement of Dr David Flood, following more than 30 years as organist and master of choristers at the cathedral.

Dr Flood’s departure has now been delayed until the end of 2020, so he can help restart music at the site when it is safe.

But a spokesman says it will provide “a natural opportunity to review the provision of music at the cathedral”.

“Given the cathedral’s financial position as a result of the pandemic, it is likely that some savings will be sought in the review,” they said.

“But no pre-conditions have been set and the review panel will have a wide remit.

“Music is an integral part of the cathedral’s worship and we take great pride in the music performed at our services, the continuation of a 1,400-year-old tradition.

“Although congregational singing is not currently permitted by government guidance due to the potential for increased risk of coronavirus transmission, we intend to retain both our boys’ and girls’ choirs in the future, as well as our world-class music provision.”

They added there are no plans to stop chorister boarding arrangements.

In May, the cathedral warned staff it would have to make job cuts in a bid to counter a “substantial loss of income” as a result of the coronavirus.

But bosses have now confirmed the losses incurred during months of closure run into the millions of pounds, prompting a redundancy scheme to be rolled out across the workforce.

Monday marked the closing date for redundancy applications, which are set to be reviewed in the coming weeks.

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