THE COST of saving Canterbury Cathedral from crumbling away and preserving its future has been put at £50million.

The daunting sum was revealed at the launch of a global fund-raising appeal simply called Save Canterbury Cathedral.

Building experts say the work is both vital and urgent to prevent further and possibly permanent damage to the fabric.

Announcing the appeal, chairman of the trustees, Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Allan Willett said: "I used to admire this great and massive iconic World Heritage Site as a solid, well-built edifice that will surely stand for a thousand more years.

"I know now that the picture postcard image masks a very different story. A story of corrosion and deterioration caused by centuries of weathering and modern pollution.

"Make no mistake, Canterbury Cathedral is under serious threat and that threat is accelerating and growing in size."

Guest speaker at the launch of the appeal at the Cathedral’s Education Centre, former Government minister and writer, Roy Hattersley, said: "I feel awe and wonder at this extraordinary building.

"What has happened here has helped create our nature, attitudes and beliefs. It would be a tragedy if it was allowed to wear away."

Mr Willett said that £5million had already been donated to kickstart the appeal by generous benefactors, but the rest needed to be raised over the next five years so the full programme of works, which include enhancements to the visitor experience, could be compeleted.

* Full report in the Kentish Gazette (October 5).