Five-year plan aims to secure cathedral's future

The team at Peterborough Cathedral said it was "overwhelmed by the compassion and generosity that poured in from across Peterborough and beyond"

A cathedral team has begun implementing its five-year masterplan to ensure the site remains open.

Earlier this year, Peterborough Cathedral raised more than £300,000 through its Cathedral in Crisis campaign - so it could remain open seven days a week without entrance fees.

The money has been used for essential repairs to parts of the Grade I listed building and to bring in a new cohort of choristers.

A cathedral spokesperson said: "The generosity of our supporters is amazing and has allowed us the time to put other measures in place to help sustain our cathedral for future generations."

The cathedral is appealing for more support, saying "the journey is far from over".

"Like any cherished home, unexpected challenges arise," they said.

Peterborough Cathedral was the burial place for two queens

Earlier this month, the Peterborough and Cambridgeshire Combined Authority approved £299,432 for a modern lighting system.

The cathedral spokesperson said it required continued support from the community to keep it going, adding that any funds donated helped it "respond to the unexpected, and plan boldly for the future".

"Just recently, a section of ceiling near Katharine of Aragon's grave fell, thankfully repaired swiftly, but a reminder that our historic building needs constant care," they said.

"We want the cathedral to remain a beacon of joy for everyone, of any faith or none. A place where music soars, history lives, and community gathers.

"However you choose to give, you become part of something enduring, a living legacy that continues to conserve this historic building, inspire, comfort, and connect our community."

A three-day Christmas Market will be held at Peterborough Cathedral this year

Previously, the Cathedral's dean, the Reverend Chris Dalliston, said the budget for building maintenance, services and activities had been "trimmed significantly" since the appeal was launched in January.

"We're hugely delighted and relieved to have achieved and exceeded our £300,000 target," he said.

"This is only the first step in building a long-term sustainable future for the cathedral."

This year, the cathedral - which relies on events to boost its income - is hosting its biggest Christmas market alongside its first festive light and sound festival in Cathedral Square.