Masons toshow offskills at open day

TWO craftsmen will be showing off their ancient skills when one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful churches opens its doors.

Master stone mason, Matthias Garn, from York and his former apprentice, David Land, from Kirby Grindalythe, winner of the English Heritage Apprentice of the Year award, will be demonstrating their carving skills at St Andrew’s Church, Weaverthorpe, on Saturday October 2.

Earlier this year the church looked as if it could close through lack of use but people have since rallied round and are hopeful it will continue in use.

There will be guided tours of the church at 11am, 1pm and 3pm by Phil Thomas, Secretary to the Diocesan Advisory Committee on Churches, and the celebrated archaeologist Pete Wilson will conduct walks around local medieval manor sites at 12 noon, 2pm and 3.30 pm.

Cathy Otton-Goulder, local church fundraiser, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to see the stunning interior of beautiful Weaverthorpe church, one of the nationally significant Tatton Sykes churches in the Yorkshire Wolds.The story of the Sykes family’s astonishing work in restoring and building no fewer than 18 of the finest churches in the Yorkshire Wolds is utterly fascinating.”

There will also be exhibitions on the Sykes churches, St William’s Window at York Minster and the history of Weaverthorpe, along with children’s activities, treasure hunts and tea and cakes.

The historic Grade I place of worship was rebuilt in the early twelfth century by Herbert the Chamberlain. It was restored by the great Victorian architect G.E. Street for Sir Tatton Sykes II of Sledmere.

This event is supported by the East Yorkshire Historic Churches Trust – www.eychurches.org For further information call 01377 217100.