LAST orders could be called at a new York bar - by the ringing of church bells.

The 11th century church building, off Micklegate, which was formerly the Arts Centre, has been transformed into a trendy new bar and eaterie called The Parish, at a cost of £1.7 million.

Its original bells have been preserved high above the bar area, and the ringers' ropes hang down within pulling distance.

Elsewhere, ancient stonework is dotted around the premises and a tomb, belonging to a long deceased knight called Sir Richard Dorke, is a focal point of the drinking area.

Steve Kent, 47, contract manager of Kent Building Developments Ltd, which carried out the work, said they had been as sensitive as possible to its historic features.

"The biggest challenge was getting the balance right between the modern and the original features of the building," he said.

"I think we've complimented the original stonework and features of the church. We're very proud of it."

Owner Nigel Cooper, 38, said the scheme had taken 11 months to complete.

"We've had some major bridges to cross and tried to keep everyone happy," he said.

"We've made a big effort to preserve features like the church bells.

"It's about giving the building life. All the hard work has been worth it."

The Parish, which will open on Monday, includes an eating area on the top floor and fashionable bar downstairs.

The original St John's Church became redundant in 1938 and was once threatened with demolition through road-widening. It was saved in the 1950s by the York Civic Trust, then shortly afterwards became the headquarters of the York Institute of Architectural Study. It was last used as Britain's first arts centre before closing through lack of cash and structural shortcomings in August, 1999.

The Evening Press recently reported that Elim Pentecostal Church, in Swinegate, was also being converted into a bar.

Updated: 08:49 Saturday, October 08, 2005