Wakefield Cathedral reopens after £3m restoration

Local historian and Cathedral Lay Canon Kate Taylor being interviewed by the BBC Songs of Praise team about the restoration. The programme will broadcast later in April Photo: Wakefield Cathedral

Wakefield Cathedral reopened to the public this week following a spectacular £3m restoration project.

The work included restoration and renewal of the nave, including improved lighting, flooring, heating and sound systems.

The altar specially designed for the cathedral by furniture makers Dove Tailors (Photo: Wakefield Cathedral)

The intention was to create a more flexible space that can be used for worship, public gatherings, concerts and other community events.

The completed project has resulted in a brighter interior that shows off the cathedral's magnificent architecture.

During renovation work, part of a painted angel was uncovered above the rood screen. Historians have dated it to the original church walls 700 years ago.

The first service in the newly renovated cathedral will be held on Palm Sunday tomorrow at 9:15am.

News
English Heritage deletes debunked claims about pagan origins of Christmas Day
English Heritage deletes debunked claims about pagan origins of Christmas Day

English Heritage has admitted it got it wrong when it shared false claims that the date of Christmas is derived from a pagan Roman festival in honour of a sun god.

Guinness Book of Records recognises 'the world’s longest serving Sunday School teacher'
Guinness Book of Records recognises 'the world’s longest serving Sunday School teacher'

Pam Knowles started helping out her church Sunday school in 1951 at the age of 13.

The origins of ‘traditional’ Christmas celebrations 
The origins of ‘traditional’ Christmas celebrations 

Today in the UK we celebrate Christmas and the period around it with many familiar traditions and activities. There is an understandable assumption that we have always done things this way. However, celebrating Christmas has a long and complex history and things change over time. 

Venezuela stops cardinal from leaving country
Venezuela stops cardinal from leaving country

The cardinal has spoken out against the excesses of the Maduro government.