ST STEPHEN'S Catholic Church in Skipton will be open on Saturday, September 16 as part of the Yorkshire Historic Trust Yorkshire Churches Day.

There will be guided tours of the grade two listed church which was built in the Gothic style, opened in 1842, extended in 1852, with designs by AWN Pugin, and is steeped in the history of the Tempest family of Broughton Hall.

There will be privileged access to the parish archives, bringing to life the history of St Stephen’s Parish, St Monica’s Convent and more.Visitors will be encouraged to ask questions and share their own memories.

A spokesperson said: "We are hoping that people from across Skipton and the Dales will be attracted to the historic church which holds beautiful art works associated with the Catholic faith and offers a unique insight into the social history of the area.

"Most notably there are records and artefacts that refer back to the Catholic families who were influential in building the Parish of St Stephen’s and also involved in the development of Skipton as a flourishing market town. St Stephen’s also has its own cemetery which offers its own story and reflection on those who have lived and worshipped here.

St Stephen’s Church and Parish Centre will be open from 10am to 4pm. Free entry. Car parking on site, including two spaces for the disabled drivers. Disabled access to Parish Centre and Church. Toilets and accessible toilet. Between 11am and 3pm refreshments will be served in the Parish Centre.