Cathedral to get roof repair from war fund

Almost £5m has been allocated to 22 cathedrals from the First World War Centenary Cathedral repair fund.

Bradford received £190,000, which will be used for high level repairs to the roof and timber work of the Cathedral, which dates back to 1458.

The Cathedral applied for funding in March, when the fund was announced by as part of the Budget to mark the role the historic buildings will play in First World War commemoration events

The Dean of Bradford, the Very Reverend Jerry Lepine said the Cathedral was “delighted” to receive the grant.

“Looking after ancient buildings is both a privilege and at times an expensive responsibility,” he said.

“Visitors to the Cathedral will know that we care deeply for this medieval building and want to look after it and the beautiful grounds as best we can. This solves our immediate major repair bills on the Cathedral building at a stroke and we are hugely grateful.”

The largest grant goes to Derby which will receive £535,000 for essential lighting works. Two more rounds of grants are still to be announced.

Culture Secretary Sajid Javid said: “We are ensuring these magnificent buildings are preserved for future generations so they continue to serve their communities and congregations.”