Passers-by in Skipton could have been forgiven for thinking Spiderman had played a visit to the town this week as nimble figures could be spotted clambering over the roof of Christ Church and abseiling down the church tower.

In fact they were members of a team of specialist roofers who have been contracted to carry out repairs to the Grade ll* listed Victorian building in Cross Street.

Instead of using expensive scaffolding the team from Vertex Specialist Roofing, based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, use ropes and harnesses, and the sort of skills more usually associated with the sport of rock climbing, to repair difficult to access roofs.

They are carrying out necessary repairs to the slates, downpipes and guttering on the church.

The church has a good claim to be the world’s first Victorian building. At a ceremony to lay the foundation stone in June 1837 news came through that King William lV had died, and Queen Victoria had ascended the throne, and the last verse of the National Anthem was quickly altered to “God save our gracious Queen”.

The church congregation offers a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike, with two 9.30am Eucharist services on Wednesdays and Sundays.

The congregation is currently raising money to preserve this splendid building and any contributions would be greatly appreciated.

Picture Credit: Enid Pyrah