Time is of the essence to repair one of Lancasters most historic landmarks. Built in 1759, it is one of the finest church towers anywhere in the country. Its bells have heralded important national events, weddings and services and the chimes of its clock have marked the passage of time for locals and visitors alike. But being on a hill open to the elements of Morecambe Bay, the Grade 1 listed tower has succumbed to centuries of wind and driving rain and is in a poor state of repair. Mortar which binds the stonework together is breaking up and falling out and water is getting in through the cracks. The towers interior is damp and the frame from which the ten bells are suspended is rusting. The wooden window frames and louvres high on the tower are rotting too. The necessary repairs will cost £110,000 which the Priory hopes to raise before another winter sets in.