NEWPORT Cathedral's Royal Patron paid a visit today to get a first-hand view at the urgent work needed to repair the damaged roof.

The Duke of Gloucester was taken up to the rafters in order to inspect the roof, which Cathedral architect Michael Davies described as being in a very bad state of decay.

This was the Duke's third visit to the Cathedral in three years and follows on from his most recent visit last November.

He also met the Cathedral Appeal's campaign team to talk about ideas for fundraising and how they can work to raise the cash needed to begin repairs.

The Duke was also a guest at a dinner held at the Cathedral by Dean Dr Richard Fenwick for potential donors.

As reported in the Argus last month, the cathedral is £1 million short of the £1.5 million needed to carry out the work and has had to postpone the start of the project until 2010, despite raising around £500,000.

There are fears the building may have to close for safety reasons if work to the roof timbers does not begin soon.

Cathedral campaign chairman, John Child, said: "We are extremely grateful to our Royal Patron for his continued support. Three visits to the Cathedral in three years shows his commitment to ensuring that this unique building is restored."

  • To donate, call 01633 215116, or visit www.newportcathedral.com