SOLAR panels could be fitted to a medieval church if it is given the go-ahead.

Representatives from English Heritage met the Diocesan Advisory Committee at Lincoln Cathedral last night to discuss whether the energy saving panels can be fitted to the roof of the south aisle of St Denys' Church, Sleaford.

The project is being led by the curate, the Reverend Jeremy Cullimore, who says the £50,000 scheme will reduce the church's electricity bill by around 80 per cent.

"English Heritage has already voiced concerns about us drilling screws into medieval masonry which simply won't happen," he said.

"The panels would be screened by a stone parapet and could only be seen from the upper stairwell of The Hub centre."

He said the church hoped to get a Government grant to pay for half the cost. If given the go-ahead, he hopes the panels can be fitted in February or March.

"We are also looking at our heating system which we've had more than a hundred years, to see what other energy saving improvements we can make to the church," he added.