TWO young employees of Coventry Cathedral were caged in the ruins of the former cathedral last week, in a 2.5-metre square box made of wire fencing (above).

Jimmy Lawrence, a pastoral assistant (right), said last Friday, before his incarceration: "By restricting our freedom, we are hoping to raise people's awareness that this free society we live in is leaving lots of people feeling more trapped than ever before. . . That is the dichotomy we are trying to highlight. Freedom is not about doing what you want when you want; it is a bit more complicated than that."

Joining Mr Lawrence was his colleague and flatmate Marlon McLaughlin (left), a verger and youth worker. They entered the box last Sunday, and were to stay there a week.

Mr Lawrence hoped that by answering visitors' questions honestly, they could create "mutual vulnerability and honesty".

The event is supported by the cathedral, which is providing staff as stewards, and offering prayer ministry.