Daredevil takes stunning pictures of Canterbury Cathedral after climbing onto the ROOF

A daredevil visitor took these highly unusual shots of famous Canterbury Cathedral – after climbing onto the ROOF.

The mystery man scaled scaffolding on the ancient building in the middle of the night to get his unique photos.

Cathedral officials were unaware of the security breach until the images appeared on an urban explorers blog.

They said the risk-taker who posted the images under the pseudonym ‘One Flew East’, was ‘stupid’.

The photographer said: “Having become aware of the fact the parts of the cathedral had had scaffolding erected around it, I’d spent several months thinking that it would be quite an experience to be able to get ‘up close and personal’ with the building.

“There’s been a long-term project in which the stonework and stained glass windows are being progressively cleaned and restored, including replacement of old, eroded stone gargoyles with new replacements. They’re doing a beautiful job of it.

“Generally I have interests in old buildings and photography and at the same time I’m always interested in gaining a unique perspective of things, things that normally you don’t get to see.

“I’m keen to point out that no damage was caused to any property, nor were any criminal offences committed.

“After climbing some fences, to reach the scaffolding, it was just a few minutes to get up to the top of it.

“My main motivations for doing this sort of thing are for the experiences itself, and also the unique photographic opportunities.

“Is there also within this a slight element of railing against the ‘nanny state’ syndrome which tells us how to live our lives and how we are expected to behave? Perhaps a little, yes.

“To people who are disdainful of this activity then I can only say ‘you’re entitled to your opinion’.

“I’m well aware of my abilities and limitations and will always stay within them, at the same time I’m well aware of the potential risks.

“If I were to sustain any injuries it be my own fault and no-one else’s.

Cathedral spokesman Chris Robinson said: “Climbing in the dark without suitable equipment is very dangerous and stupid. It should not be copied.”

Kent Police said it was unlikely a criminal offence has been committed and any trespass would be a civil matter.