Cathedral aisle shut after ceiling stone falls

News imageBBC The photo shows a close-up of the high ceiling in the south nave of Bristol Cathedral. An intricately carved stone arch can be seen, with a chunk of stone missing. The damaged area looks paler than the rest of the arch. There is also a crack in the ceiling above the arch itself.BBC
Damage can be seen on small area of a high stone arch at Bristol Cathedral

Part of a cathedral has been cordoned off after a piece of masonry fell from its ceiling.

The south aisle of Bristol Cathedral, which is located in the city-centre, has been closed to the public for safety reasons since 22 September after pieces of stone were found on the floor.

Using a cherry picker to reach the high ceiling and archways, the cathedral, which remains open, said an assessment of the damaged ceiling is due to be carried out over the coming weeks.

"We can confirm that no individuals were in the immediate vicinity when the masonry fell and no injuries were sustained," said Bristol Cathedral.

"Investigations will take place over the coming weeks to establish the cause and implications of the damage and determine the necessary remedial work," it added.

All services and activities at the site are expected to continue as normal.

The Grade I listed Church of England building has been a place of worship for around 900 years.

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