TWO memorial plaques within the historic Abbey Ruins have received extra protection to help preserve them during the harsh winter weather.

The listed plaques celebrate the site's first and last abbots, Hugh de Boves and Hugh of Faringdon.

Following the reopening of the 900-year-old ruins last summer, several techniques have been used to help protect it for future generations.

Reading Borough Council's conservation contractors installed stainless steel weather canopies over the plaques.

Councillor Sarah Hacker, lead member for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said: “In the Abbey Quarter, Reading boasts a site of national significance.

"Last summer, the council fulfilled its long-standing ambition to preserve these important ruins and open the abbey to the public.

"The ongoing conservation work is part of our commitment to maintaining the ruins for future generations to appreciate.

“If you have not yet been down to the reopened Abbey Ruins, I thoroughly recommend you take a stroll there and explore the beautiful surroundings and see these fascinating plaques up close.

"You can also find out more about the history of the abbey at our wonderful Reading Museum, which is a short walk away from the ruins.

“Last year we enjoyed an exciting programme of events and activities centred around the ruins and there is even more to look forward to this year.”

The recent protection work follows the annual winter conservation in November 2018, which involved the medieval technique of using hot lime mortar, similar to the methods used in the original construction of Reading Abbey.