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THE magnificent sight of Salisbury Cathedral can be enjoyed for longer into the night thanks to an anonymous donor from Downton.

The money means that the new state-of-the-art lighting system can stay switched on until 11.30pm each night and the tower and spire will remain floodlit until 1.30am.

Although the cathedral's benefactor does not want his name or the amount disclosed, he said that the gift would enable visitors to appreciate the iconic cathedral late at night.

"Salisbury Cathedral is one of this country's greatest buildings, the spire itself is an awe-inspiring architectural masterpiece recognised across the world," he said.

"It stands not only as a symbol of faith and testament to medieval architecture but also of Salisbury itself and all that goes on in the city.

"In the past many people have voiced their disappointment that the floodlighting does not remain on for longer because, for the late night visitor, the cathedral has been invisible after 10pm, maybe giving the impression that the cathedral is asleep."

Work to modernise the lighting system at the cathedral was completed in March.

Its designers highlighted the architecture and features of the world famous building while significantly reducing the energy consumption of the lighting system and cutting back on night time light pollution.

"We are indebted to this donor for such a generous gift which will enable us to redress the situation where the external lighting of the cathedral had to be switched off at 10pm," said chapter clerk Mark Elcomb.

"Thanks to this generosity, the cathedral will now remain fully floodlit until 11.30pm every night, with the tower and spire illuminated further into the night until 1.30am. In the year that the cathedral celebrates its 750th anniversary and hereafter, the cathedral will not disappear' when the close gates are locked and, with the new scheme, we can do this without causing the light pollution of the old. "

The Dean of Salisbury, The Very Rev June Osborne added: "We are thrilled to be able to illuminate the cathedral for longer into the evening sky. Residents of Salisbury and travellers on the road take inspiration and solace from the sight of the cathedral.

"We know that this ability to see the spire day and night will be welcomed by all."

3:31am Wednesday 7th May 2008

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