I have been the Cathedral Architect at Exeter since 2012 and I have viewed the fabric of the North Tower from ground level or safe vantage points from the roofs …

I have asked specialists to go over the parapet on ropes and inspect the fabric BUT I have never been over myself …

In an effort to raise funds towards the building of the Cloister Gallery in May I am going to join a group of intrepid adventurers and go over the parapet and abseil down the North Tower of Exeter Cathedral.

The abseil will take place on the 4 May - if you are in Exeter come and watch the descent.

The amazing transept towers at Exeter were built between 1120 and 1170. They are decorated with blind arcading with dog-tooth ornament and are over 140 feet (44m) high.

All the funds raised will go towards the building of the Cloister Gallery designed by Clews Architects - specifically one of the pointed arch windows with interlocking tracery…

When finished the Cloister Gallery will connect the Cathedral with the 13th century Chapter House and Pearson Building which will ensure all these amazing spaces can be used to their full potential - something that has not been possible since the medieval cloister was demolished in the 17th Century!