One of Sir Christopher Wren's masterpieces, St Bride's Church in Fleet Street, London is under threat unless funding can be secured for essential repair and conservation work to its spire.

The Grade I listed church, nicknamed he 'Cathedral of Fleet Street' is the tallest of Wren's City churches and has stood for more than 300 years. Over time the spire has deteriorated, with damage to stonework now causing serious concern. Without vital work the building could have to close.

The INSPIRE! Appeal aims to secure at least £2.5million during 2012 from the congregation and visitors, as well as local businesses and the media with which it has been associated since Wynken de Worde established his printing press in what is now the churchyard of St Bride's, some 500 years ago.

In addition to the damaged stonework, grime has built up over the 40 years since the church was last cleaned, with carbon deposits of an inch deep in some places. Once the spire has been renovated, the aim is to restore it to its former glory and undertake much needed work to the interior, which has remained untouched for more than 30 years.

The INSPIRE! Appeal will be formally launched on 21 March 2012, with a lecture by well-known author and historian Adrian Tinniswood, whose book 'His Invention So Fertile' tracks the life of Sir Christopher Wren.

The Venerable David Meara, Archdeacon of London and Rector of St Bride's commented on the INSPIRE! Appeal: "St Bride's is a working church; a building that is in use seven days a week, with an active congregation of residents and local business people. As well as the daily life of St Bride's there are regular weddings, christenings, memorials, and concerts as well as a large number of overseas visitors.

"Since renovation work was last carried out almost 70 years ago, the church has survived lightning, acid rain, smoky chimneys and extensive piling, as well as the ever presents birds. The falling stonework is now becoming a grave concern and we desperately need these funds. We have committed £300,000 from our reserves, but need more."

A special fundraising Working Group has been set up under the Chairmanship of Paul Finch OBE, Chairman of Design Council Cabe. Several events are being planned for 2012 for potential corporate donors, the congregation and the general public.