Without the contributions of its parishioners and the people of the Diocese, our Cathedral would never have been built. Without our contributions today it can not be maintained and preserved for future generations.

Major restoration works were completed at the Cathedral in 2005/06. This means we have a beautiful building that is generally in a good state of repair. However, as time goes on, caring for our Cathedral means keeping on top of the repair works that do become necessary. Whilst parishioners of the Cathedral give generously, at present the level of donations does not cover the costs of the building works required. We are therefore appealing for donations specifically to help us undertake these building works.

As a Listed Building, every 5 years we must undergo a Quinquennial Inspection. This helps us identify problems early and keep our beautiful Cathedral in good shape, and prevent much bigger expenses by attending to problems at the right time.

Thank you for your generours support which has already funded the following works:

Repairs to the Sacred Heart Altar

Repairs to the Baptismal Font

Repairs to the West Rood (Crucifix)

Repairs to the South Steps

Essential Electrical Repairs

New Speakers to improve the Sound System

Replacement of some lighting with LED fittings

Refurbishment of WC facilities

Here are more details about some of the areas that are currently a priority:

Lighting

The lighting is poor and many of the existing fittings are failing. The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation has made a grant for the fittings in a significant number of lanterns to be changed so they can take LED lamps. We would also like to change the lantern fittings to LED in the following areas:

Former Baptistry

Pieta

War Memorial Chapel

St Joseph Chapel

Sacred Heart Chapel

North Steps to Sanctuary

South Steps to Sanctuary

Lady Chapel (6 lanterns)

A donation of £500 per lantern would allow all costs associated with the switch to LED lighting to be fully covered for the lantern in your chosen area, or of course, you could also make a donation towards part of the cost.

If you would like to fund a particular area, add it to the comments with your JustGiving Donation.

Masonry Works

The boundary wall needs some expensive repairs, as shown on this close up below:

Deep clean floor

The stone floor is very grubby and dirt is now engrained into the surface of the stone giving it a uniform drab colouration. In addition, when the wax from candles is spilt onto the stone it gathers dirt and dust and shows as dark patches. Our Cathedral Architect recommends a professional deep clean followed by sealing of the stone floor throughout the Cathedral.

Thank you!