Vicar Ferial Etherington is on a mission - to cycle the length of Britain.

The sprightly 72-year-old is aiming to boost the coffers of the fundraising drive to breathe new life into the Fratry building at Carlisle Cathedral.

For some people, cycling 42.46 miles a day at this age would be a challenge, but for the Rev Etherington it's more akin to a pilgrimage.

It's 20 years since Rev Etherington completed a long cycle trip from St. Malo to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, although she admits she has done several 'mini-trips' - Carlisle or Flookburgh to York, island-hopping through the Outer Hebridges from Barra to Lewis in 2014 and the Great Glen from Fort William to Inverness in 2016.

But Rev Etherington has always hankered after the 'Big One'.

"Or LEJOG as it's called - and this year I have the perfect excuse," she said.

"Carlisle Cathedral is raising funds for its Fratry Project and I'm looking for sponsorship on my journey from Land's End to John O'Groats to boost the coffers," she added.

Setting off on May 19, Rev Etherington aims to complete the journey of 1,188.9 miles in 28 days.

"An average of 42.46 miles a day, which is easily do-able at the age of 72 - I think," she said.

Work is expected to start early next year on the major extension in the grounds of Carlisle Cathedral.

So far, £3m has been raised towards the cost of the transformation and extension of the Fratry, which will create a new teaching, education and learning area.

The project, which will also see a new space created for hospitality and catering, was boosted by a £1,918,500 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The Cathedral's stories and its treasures will be available to be seen and explored in the new Fratry centre, which will also become a venue for cultural, musical and community events.

In medieval times the Fratry was the dining hall of Carlisle Cathedral Priory.

"The project aims to realise the Cathedral's vision to be a place of discovery, celebration and challenge, and will allow the building to be open and accessible to the whole community," said Rev Etherington.

"I am appealing to the public to help raise the final £450,000. I want to let people know I will not be using any of the money raised towards my own costs," she added.

For donations click on the 'Just Giving' link on the Cathedral websit. Go to: www.carlislecathedral.org.uk.