The belfry is a distinctive part of Portsmouth Cathedral. (Photo: Association of English Cathedrals)Portsmouth Cathedral has reached its fundraising goal to restore its historic belfry, paving the way for conservation work to begin next month. A cathedral spokesperson thanked everyone who had supported the appeal, saying the project had only reached its target because of the generosity of donors, grant-making organisations, volunteers and those who had shared the campaign or prayed for its success. The repairs come as England’s cathedrals continue to balance the preservation of historic buildings with growing financial pressures. The report found that 77% of adults in England had visited a cathedral within the previous three years, highlighting their continuing importance as places of worship, culture and community engagement.