Pinnacles to be replaced five years on from storm

Work on a new set of pinnacles at a cathedral tower has begun, five years on from when a storm left the 14th Century part of the structure severely damaged.

In 2021, Worcester Cathedral saw one of its north-east pinnacles - the pointed decorative spires - collapse after it was battered by 100mph wind gusts during Storm Arwen.

The damaged pinnacle fell through the North Quire Aisle but was restored in 2023 before a detailed investigation revealed the north-west pinnacles were also at risk of structural failure.

On Monday, scaffolding was erected at the landmark so the next phase of the conservation project could start, which will not come down until early January 2027.

The project will see the repair and rebuilding of the vulnerable north-west pinnacles.

Despite temporary steel supports having been installed, a cathedral spokesperson said it was "now essential to protect the cathedral's historic fabric and ensure the long-term safety of the building".

A grant of £249,956 was awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in support of the project.

The spokesperson said: "This funding is helping to secure the future of one of England's most important heritage buildings, enabling vital conservation work."

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