Two of Gloucestershire's most famous institutions have come together to provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to quite literally carve a piece of county history.

Gloucester Cathedral and Cheltenham Racecourse have team up on a time-limited opportunity for six individuals to sponsor the final gargoyle to be placed on the Cathedral's North Ambulatory.

The six gargoyles all represent the six different districts of Gloucestershire, from a Forest of Dean free miner to a Gloucester Rugby player.

Unsurprisingly, given the town is the home of National Hunt Racing, Cheltenham's gargoyle is inspired by a race jockey.

And for £3,000 any individual can become part of a syndicate that would sponsor the gargoyle and earn a two-year membership to the Cheltenham and South West racing syndicate.

All funds raised will help finish the repair project to the North Ambulatory, parts of which date back to the eleventh century.

The gargoyles are essential to direct rainwater away from the stone walls, protecting the Cathedral, ensuring it can be enjoyed by generations to come.

The gargoyle design depicts an emotional female jockey, proudly holding the Gold Cup following on from her win.

Pascal Mychalysin, master mason at Gloucester Cathedral, said: "Cheltenham is synonymous with horse racing and the design of the Cheltenham gargoyle was inspired by Bryony Frost who made history as the first female jockey to win a top-level Grade One Cheltenham Festival race."

"Befittingly, we are pleased to be partnering with the Cheltenham Racecourse to encourage donations towards this worthy project.

Matthew Foxton-Duffy regional head of marketing at The Jockey Club said: "Cheltenham Racecourse are delighted to be part of the Gargoyle project and excited to see the Cheltenham Jockey in place on the Cathedral.

"Cheltenham is renowned the world over as the Home of Jump racing and to be linked in some way is fantastic."

In order to take full advantage of the prize on offer, sponsors will need to make their £3,000 pledge before March 11.

They will then receive the benefits of being a member of the Cheltenham and South West Syndiate, which is worth around £4,500.

The package includes a share in three South West-trained horses for two seasons, as well as two seasons as a full member of Cheltenham.

Cheltenham membership also includes full benefits at Exeter, Warwick and Wincanton Racecourses.

For the Festival, each of the sponsors has access to an exclusive facility, presented by Magners and on Thursday, March 12 two places at the 'Special Tiara' VIP facility.

Syndicate membership also offers the chance to follow the three horses owned by the club and a share in any prize money they win as well as organised stable visits and trips.

Sponsors will also be offered special tours of the Cathedral and masons' yard at the Cathedral including a scaffolding tour to see the gargoyles up close.

To become a sponsor of the final gargoyle, contact Gloucester Cathedral's Philanthropy Manager, Sonia Bielaszewska via soniab@gloucestercathedral.org.uk or on 01452 874965.