Mass will be celebrated in St Mel's Cathedral in Longford this evening for the first time since a fire destroyed the building on Christmas Eve five years ago.

The blaze destroyed the interior of the 175 year old cathedral, most of its furnishings and fittings as well as the roof.

However, it was officially re-opened yesterday and mass will take place there tonight at 7:30pm.

The restoration cost €30m and was one of the biggest clerical projects in Europe.

The building will be open from 10:30am this morning for public viewing.

Chairperson of the restoration committee, Seamus Butler, has paid tribute to all those involved.

Speaking to Shannonside FM, Mr Butler said it is important to recognise the achievement of everyone involved in making this possible in such a short time frame.