New doors installed at St Andrew’s Church at Aysgarth

The old "uninspiring" wooden doors were a problem at funerals as pall bearers had to crouch down to get coffins with floral displays on top of them safely under the low upper casing.

The church’s fabric manager, Neil Piper said: "It had been felt for a long time that the old doors were uninspiring, being solid wood of no particular interest. What was proposed was some kind of glass door which would allow people to see into the church and also let more light in.

"Through discussion with the PCC, the church architects came up with a bold plan to create arched doors, which are very appropriate for a church building.

"Now that they have been installed they look quite stunning and have several advantages: firstly, they present an attractive and welcoming front to any approaching visitor; secondly, they allow additional light into the building; and thirdly, (and most crucially) they extend the height of the entrance by over two feet (60 centimetres), allowing a much more dignified entry for special occasions such as weddings and especially for funerals.

"Inevitably it has been a slow process. Consulting with the architects, getting the necessary permissions to proceed and drawing up specifications to put the work out to tender takes time. Four contractors submitted bids for the work and the contract was finally granted to Peter Merrell, a carpenter in Grassington. He has done a wonderful job, much of it in his own workshop."

Rev Tom Ringland added: "Raising the height of the doors makes it much easier for pall bearers at funerals. This is respectful, and makes this duty easier on a stressful occasion.

"We will be opening the external doors so there's a clear view through the new glazed inner doors to the interior of the church. This is at once welcoming, and also allows people to see if there is a service in progress before they come in. "