Scientists have made an urgent plea for the continued multi-million euro financing of the Great Canary Telescope on La Palma.

They are worried that despite the spectacular discoveries it has made over the last two years, funds to secure its future are in doubt.

It costs at least four million euros to run each year but finance is also needed to upgrade some of the equipment.

The CGT has been involved in some stunning finds, including more black holes and  galaxies thought to stretch back to the very creation of the universe.

The telescope is described as “the crown jewel of Spanish science” and one of the most important scientific projects in the country.

Urging continued funding, head of the agency Pedro Álvarez said: “Big science is a matter for the State” not region.