One of the most iconic buildings in the county, Gloucester Cathedral has won a £40,000 conservation grant from the Headley Trust.
Going towards the renovations of the historically important 14th-century cloister, the money will help fund the next phase of the cathedral's Cloister Project.
The cloister, internationally famous for appearing in three of the Harry Potter films and more recently in the BBC's Wolf Hall, is believed to date from the 1350s and is renowned for having the world's best example of fan vaulting.
The £40,000 grant will help the conservation team undertake a range of essential works, such as careful cleaning of the masonry; the removal of hard cement pointing which will be replaced with more historically appropriate and traditional lime-based materials; repairs to damaged stonework; and the cleaning of stained glass and leaded-light glazing.
The Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, dean of Gloucester, said: 'We are incredibly grateful to The Headley Trust for their continued support of the cathedral’s heritage and the people who make it possible.
'Their support will not only help in preserving the fabric of the cathedral but also invest in the skills and craftsmanship needed to do so.'
The Headley Trust, which is one of the Sainsbury family's charitable trusts, has previously supported the cathedral’s stonemason apprenticeships, too.
Eilidh McIntosh, head of fabric and property at the cathedral, said: 'The conservation of Gloucester Cathedral’s cloister is essential in ensuring the cathedral remains safe and beautiful for future generations.
'We are fortunate to have a team of highly skilled stonemasons and craftspeople, whose careers have been previously supported by The Headley Trust. They are dedicated to ensuring the work meets the highest standards of craftsmanship.'
Work is expected to start immediately and will continue over the next few months.
