The prayers of worshippers at a cathedral featured in the latest Harry Potter film have been partially answered following an attack by hooligans.

Vandals damaged Gloucester Cathedral's historic stained glass windows last week.

The cost of repairs is expected to top �40,000.

But already the cathedral has received donations from across the country - including one for �2,500.

We are considering restricting access to some areas and increasing the number of people on patrol

Tony Higgs, Gloucester Cathedral

Tony Higgs, chapter steward, said: "A lot of people have been expressing sympathy and have offered donations.

"We have had one donation of �2,500 from an individual, purely as a result of the media coverage we have had so far."

Police have appealed for witnesses after the vandals smashed 24 stained glass windows.

The gang ran amok in the 900-year-old cloister last Tuesday, destroying the Victorian panes.

Hogwarts location

The Cathedral is better known to some as the location for many scenes at Harry Potter's school, Hogwarts.

It was transformed into a school for wizards and witches for the films based on JK Rowling's best-selling novels.

Mr Higgs added the Cathedral was now reviewing its security and said it may be forced to install CCTV cameras.

"We are also considering restricting access to some areas and increasing the number of people on patrol," he said.

A spokesman for Gloucesteshire Police said: "If you witnessed anything or saw anyone acting suspiciously around the cathedral please contact us."