OLD stonework removed during recent renovations at a Word Heritage site go under a different kind of hammer tomorrow.

A unique auction takes place at Durham Cathedral giving bidders the chance to own their own piece of medieval history.

Successful buyers will also have the satisfaction of knowing their purchase will be helping to secure the future of the Norman-built landmark.

The cathedral’s first ever stone auction features ‘lots’ of varying shapes and sizes taken from the top of the central tower during its £1.9m renovation.

North-East auctioneers Anderson and Garland will conduct the one-off sale

A selection of 60 stones will be sold in the auction, with funds raised going towards future maintenance of the cathedral.

The cathedral’s head of development and strategy, Gaye Kirby, said the auction offers the opportunity for bidders to literally own a piece of Durham’s history.

“All proceeds will go toward supporting our Foundation 2020 endowment campaign and so will forever support the cathedral’s ongoing repair work.”

Selected stones have been displayed for viewing in the DLI Garden and in the Works Yard, south of the cathedral.

Final viewing opportunities are today, from 9.30am - 4.30pm, and tomorrow from 9.30am - 1pm, while the auction, itself, will take place in the Chapter House, off the cathedral cloister, between 1 and 3pm.

Please note that to participate and bid in the auction you will need to register, and people are encouraged to do this beforehand.

This is a simple process that can be completed online on the Anderson & Garland website: https://www.andersonandgarland.com. People can also register on the day in person from 11am outside of the Chapter House.