A turquoise statue positioned above the entrance to Canterbury Cathedral has been removed as work to preserve the landmark enters its next phase.

The Welcoming Christ was, this morning, separated from the alcove in Burgate where it has long greeted visitors.

It will be stored in a specialist facility, where its condition will be assessed, for about 18 months while restoration work to the gate takes place.

This forms the latest part of of the landmark's development programme, called the Canterbury Journey.

The cathedral's head of conservation, Heather Newton, said: "The large bronze statue needed removing for safe keeping while we carry out the last major piece of work by The Canterbury Journey – the extensive conservation work planned for the whole of the gateway.

"The statue needs to be out of the way so it is not damaged.”

The Canterbury Journey was started in 2016 in order to make the cathedral's roof watertight, improve the grounds and create new visitor facilities and community spaces.

It is due to come to an end late next year.

You can view a timeline of the project here.

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury