Glastonbury Abbey has received nearly £340,000 of funding thanks to the government's Culture Recovery Fund, to help the historic site survive the coronavirus crisis.

The abbey has received £339,500 from the fund, which looks to unite public, government and cultural organisations in support of cinemas, theatres, music venues, museums, galleries and heritage sites.

As an independent charity, a funding award such as this will have a significant impact on the abbey's ability to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

While it will assist in helping the abbey team meet the costs involved with managing an important heritage site on a daily basis throughout the winter, it will also allow them to work on improving strategies to conserve and maintain the site for current and future generations.

Glastonbury Abbey is a culturally important heritage site that also offers 36 acres of open space right in the centre of Glastonbury.

At usual times this space welcomes local residents, national and international tourists, schools and community groups.

Director of Glastonbury Abbey Janet Bell said: "This funding is a lifeline to us and others who are passionate about sustaining heritage for the benefit of all.

"We are grateful to the department of Culture, Media and Sport, the UK Heritage Fund and Historic England for their continuing support."

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "As a nation it is essential that we preserve our heritage and celebrate and learn from our past.

"This massive support package will protect our shared heritage for future generations, save jobs and help us prepare for a cultural bounceback post-Covid."

With this funding and the Glastonbury Abbey Recovery Appeal, the historic site aims to continue to build towards the future and offer a safe, educational and enjoyable space for all.

To find out more about the Glastonbury Abbey Recovery Appeal visit: https://appeal.glastonburyabbey.com.