Weeks of road closures to allow for the works at St Mary's Church to be completed are set to start today (January 22).

Through its Campaign 2023 project, St Mary's has been trying to raise £1.8 million for repointing, pointing, repairing and replacing the eroded stonework.

Works on site have been ongoing over the past year, and the church is now preparing for phase three of the project.

Closures will impact Northgate Street, Church Street and Old Square and will start today and last until April 19.

Parking will be suspended around the church and a one-way system will be in effect to divert vehicles.

Roads around the church will be closed while the scaffolding is removed (image by Geoff Ousbey)

A recent update in the church's online newsletter said: "We do apologise for the length of time that these roads will be closed and for the disruption this will cause.

"We understand the difficulties that this can cause surrounding communities and would like to thank you for your continued patience."

St Mary's, which was founded on its present site in 1123 by Roger de Newburgh, is one of the UK's oldest major churches. 

The church has received donations from a number of sources including Warwick District Council and the National Churches Trust.

An appeal was also recorded by Dame Judi Dench urging people to support the project.