Magento

Tried installing Megento and got the following error

ERROR: Whoops, it looks like you have an invalid PHP version. Magento supports PHP 5.2.0 or newer.

I have a fasthosts dedicated server and they are only on version PHP Version 5.1.2

Is it necessary to upgrade the version of php or is there a workaround.

Fasthosts say that their control panel system may or may not work if I upgrade the version of php

Any info would be much appreciated

Regards

Martin.