Security cameras could soon be installed around Rochester Cathedral to deter vandals and anti-social behaviour.

The CCTV is needed following a spate of damage around the second oldest cathedral in England.

The system will cost between £75,000 and £80,000, with the Home Office picking up 80% of the bill.

Simon Lace, chapter clerk, said: "As we are in a conservation area we have ensured they will not look intrusive.

"About four years ago we had a break-in in the crypt when windows were smashed causing thousands of pounds worth of damage."

It comes just a week after a break-in in the High Street where access was reportedly gained through the precinct.

And in 2016, a cross, candlesticks and an old Turkish carpet were damaged by an intruder.

The proposed cameras, six of them, would be on all sides of the cathedral, some fixed directly and others to nearby cathedral buildings.

These include St Andrew's House, Garth House and the garden walls of the cathedral office and Deanery Gate garden.

A design and access statement submitted with the plans read: "Vandalism and antisocial behaviour around the building has long been an issue for the cathedral."

It adds: "The provision of cameras is a new and one might say alien addition to the fabric of the cathedral and other precinct buildings although a number of lights and other service items already exist in some of these locations.

"However, on the scale of the cathedral it will have relatively low impact.

"The location of the cameras and their transmitting antennae has been chosen to have the least visual impact possible while allowing them to view necessary areas."

It concludes installation will deter future damage to the fabric of the Grade I-listed building.

If the planning application is improved, it is hoped the system will be up and running this summer.