SCIENTISTS have devised the world's first solar power stained glass window for England's oldest cathedral.

Designs for the window in Ripon, North Yorkshire, have already been prepared and when complete it will be used to power a bronze water feature.

It will be created by Bridget Jones, a stained glass artist from Newcastle. Her designs include images of animals, birds, fish, insects, plants and ferns.

The idea of the solar power window at the cathedral, which was founded in 672, has already generated a lot of interest. It will be situated in the Chapel of God the Creator.

The water feature that it will power is being likened to a holy water flagon.

Sunlight power is expected to be on stream by next year.