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This
visit to the Cathedral was most interesting. Our guide
for the visit to the tower was the Clerk of Works for the
Cathedral, who had worked in and on the building for the
last 40 years or so. His knowledge of the structure,
it’s history, it’s past problems and the
problems it now faces was extensive and as a result of
some lengthy discussions with us, the trip to the tower
lasted considerably longer than had been planned.
The route to the tower was less than obvious. After
climbing a staircase to the under-roof area, we walked
along the chapel ceilings, which gave us a birds-eye view
of the knave, to a spiral staircase to gain access to the
next level of the under-roof area on the opposite side of
the building. This area was particularly interesting
since it revealed just how simple and fragile the roof
trusses for the Cathedral are. All of these wooden
trusses and beams are hundreds of years old, secured
solely by fitted joints and a few dowels, no steal or
bolts to be seen. From here, another spiral staircase
climb to the parapet around the tower and some fantastic
views over Chichester and the Sussex countryside. We were
then able to access the base of the spire and view its
construction, (no volunteers to climb the rickety old,
almost vertical, ladders to the top).
The tour of the ground floor level of the Cathedral,
given by two lady guides, was most informative, again
leading to many question and answer sessions in the
process of walking around with them. Our guides were able
to point out many interesting features of the Cathedral,
especially those that one could easily walk straight past
as a casual visitor.
Some of the group returned after the break for lunch to
listen to the Organ recital, one of many organised
throughout the year as part.
Richard Norton
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