Bristol City Council has set �2m aside for the restoration

The 45-acre graveyard includes several Victorian chapels and important monuments.

Money raised by the appeal will be used to repair paths and walls and to improve the neglected gardens.

Chairman of the Arnos Vale Trust Richard Smith said: "The launch will be an important landmark in the history of the cemetery."

Millions of pounds are needed to restore the graveyard, which has been taken over by the city council.

Lottery bid

The appeal will be split into parts for specific purposes, such as improving the Anglican Chapel, the Non-Conformist Chapel or the lodge buildings at the entrance to the site on the A4.

Reports are also being drawn up which will be used in a �3.2m bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The city council has set �2m aside towards the restoration project.

English Heritage has pledged �250,000 with the prospect of a further �150,000 to follow.

The graveyard is Grade II* listed on the national Parks and Gardens register.

The appeal will be formally launched on Saturday 11 September.