English Heritage has linked up with the Ripon and Leeds Diocese to create a new post aimed at helping congregations care for historic church buildings.
The new role – a first for Yorkshire – will be filled by Alice Ullathorne, 32, who recently completed a two year placement with English Heritage as a historic environment trainee in York, having previously worked as a survey archaeologist for the Peak District National Park.
The diocese covers parts of West and North Yorkshire up to the River Tees and of its 264 churches, 195 are listed and 44 are designated Grade I – the highest ranking of national historic significance.
Most of Alice’s efforts will be focused on a small number of churches including St Margaret’s, Hawes, St Oswald’s, Askrigg, and St Michael’s, Well, near Bedale in North Yorkshire. Alice, from Middlesbrough, said: “This role aims provide a source of expertise for hard pressed congregations responsible for looking after cherished buildings.
“My job is to add a vital layer of support, helping congregations map out the road ahead, while identifying buildings most in need of support.”
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