The Spire grows by 17m to dwarf shoppers

THE Spire of Dublin — better known as The Spike — was rising higher yesterday as work continued on the gleaming monument which will soon dominate the skyline of the Irish capital.

When completed, the conical structure will soar 120 metres (393ft) above O'Connell Street, dwarfing the GPO building.

The first part of the Spire was moved into position late last week and the latest 17-metre (55ft) section was being hauled into place as Dubliners rounded off their Christmas shopping.