Oxford university church awarded £3.4m grant

Refurbishments will take five years and include repairs to the building's stonework

The building with Oxford's tallest spire - University Church of St Mary the Virgin - will be renovated following a £3.4m lottery grant.

Work is expected to start on the stonework, spire and tower before the end of the year.

The five-year project will result in some temporary restrictions to the church and the Vaults and Gardens Cafe.

The Reverend Canon Brian Mountford said the refurbishments would "see St Mary's through the next fifty years."

The Old Library, used since the 13th century, will also be restored.

Stuart McLeod, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: "This inspirational and important project showcases our heritage at its very best, by providing the local community and visitors with a special look into the past."

The history of the church will be displayed and up to 200 local people will be trained as guides in a series of volunteering programmes.

The Grade I-listed church attracts over 300,000 visitors every year.