ONE small step in the history of Durham Cathedral proved 325 giant steps for the Prested family of nearby Belmont.

Completion of the three-year restoration of the stonework at the top of the central tower of the 900-year-old landmark was marked with its public reopening today.

The Northern Echo: Heather Prested with her husband Nigel and Ian Seymour (left) make their way to the top of Durham Cathedral. Photograph: Stuart BoultonHeather Prested with her husband Nigel and Ian Seymour (left) make their way to the top of Durham Cathedral. Photograph: Stuart Boulton

 

The first contingent to ascend the gradually narrowing 325 steps to the top of the 218ft tower were Heather Prested, husband Nigel and brother Ian Seymour, who made the journey back home to the North-East, from Stoke-on-Trent, especially for the event.

Mrs Prested, a teacher at Cheveley Park Primary School, in Belmont, was the winner of The Northern Echo’s Memories competition to earn the right to be the first to go up the reopened tower.

The tiring climb was worth it, as the changing panorama of Durham came into sight on a bright and blustery June morning.

“It’s a fantastic view, particular with all of the development that has been going on in Durham recently.

“I recall coming up here a few years ago and, of course, the skyline has changed so much in recent years since the tower was last open.

“I think I wasn’t the only one who got sick of seeing it with the white canopy covering the top of the tower while the restoration was going on, but it obviously had to be done.”

Mrs Prested said she felt it fitting that she was among the first to climb the reopened tower as the family has an affinity with the cathedral through her mother, the late Audrey Seymour.

 

The Northern Echo: Heather Prested at the top of Durham Cathedral. Photograph: Stuart BoultonHeather Prested at the top of Durham Cathedral. Photograph: Stuart Boulton

She was a member of the one of the Durham Guild of Broderers, the craftswomen who create much of the colourful and intricate embroidery seen round the cathedral.

A piece created by Mrs Seymour can still be seen, as a corner altar frontal near the Tomb of Ct Cuthbert.

Mrs Prested was also thrilled that after their return, downward journey from the tower roof, they were asked to sign the cathedral's special visitor book, along with names like Prince Charles.

Admission to the tower, between 10am and 4pm daily, is £5 per adult and £2.50 for accompanied children, who must be aged eight and above.

Tickets are available at the visitor desk.

Sensible footwear is required for visitors, who should be of reasonable health to tackle the 325-step climb.