Ripon Cathedral, the oldest in England, founded in 672, has been given £150,000 from English Heritage to help repair its roof.

The huge project will cost a total of £500,000, and the shortfall is being raised by the newly-established Ripon Cathedral Development Campaign, a long-term project to raise £3m to ensure the building's future.

The slate roof of the nave is more than 130 years old; it was last restored in the 1870s.

Scaffolding will be erected along with a temporary roof so work can go on throughout next winter. It should take about nine months.

The Dean, the Very Rev John Methuen, has given a warm welcome to English Heritage's contribution. "But I am sure many people will also want to contribute," he said.

English Heritage Yorkshire director David Fraser said: "Ripon Cathedral is not only important for its architecture and historic interest, but for its work of art and fine craftsmanship. This is the largest grant we have awarded to Ripon. Now we urge other donors to add their support.

"Repairing the roof before water begins to damage the priceless interior will avoid a far more costly bill in future."

Left, the nave, which would be damaged by water, pictured from the tower - D&S