IT'S a twenty-foot-high steel pillar covered in glowing lights which emits a low humming noise.

Yes, it is a piece of modern art.

But unlike most modern artworks, this one is generally very popular with the public.

Since its official opening last Thursday, Luminous Motion has lit up the grounds of Winchester Cathedral with multicoloured lights.

The five-metre stainless steel spire is dotted with fairy lights that gradually shift colour every few seconds - creating a flowing light show.

It also responds to text messages sent from mobile phones.

Yesterday Winchester residents and visitors were generally positive about the latest addition to the city.

Lilian Mercer, 64, of Ampfield said: "It's lovely, I think it really adds something".

Her reaction was typical.

However, there was some concern that the ultra-modern artwork is out of place so near the ancient cathedral.

Lori Williams, a teacher from Southsea, summed up many people's opinions when she said: "It's a good idea, but perhaps it would be best not here."

Artist Peter Freeman created the pillar, which will stand in the cathedral grounds until next spring, when it will be relocated elsewhere in the city.

It is the third instalment in a three-part project to place light art in the city. The £100,000 total cost of the projects was largely met with National Lottery cash.

The initial two artworks - flashing disco lights in shop windows and an Internet kiosk in the Broadway - met with more mixed reviews.