ON an inspiring religious note, the Journal of 200 years ago this week sought public subscriptions towards the urgent restoration of one of Worcester's most prominent and familiar landmarks.

"St Andrew's Spire: It being the general wish of the Inhabitants to have this beautiful structure, so elegant in itself and so ornamental to the city, fully repaired, the Churchwardens have had estimates drawn up for the work to be undertaken and completed this summer.

"The Nobility, Gentry and others are therefore respectfully informed that Books of Subscriptions are opened at both the Worcester banks where their favors will be thankfully received.

''Already, Worcester Corporation and Messrs Berwick and Co have each contributed ten guineas."

For the record, St Andrew's Spire was built in 1751 and reaches to a height of 245ft, the tower being 90ft and the spire 155ft.

The spire became detached from the main body of its church due to demolition work during the late 1940s.