(Image: Freelancer)
A church that was built in the 19th century within the North York Moors National Park has been designated as a Grade II Listed Building.
Historic England has added St Michael's Church in Cold Kirby to the National Heritage List for England due to its historic and architectural interests and its group value.
The listing highlights that St Michael's was rebuilt on a "long-standing site of worship" around 1841 by Thomas Duncombe, the younger brother of the 1st Baron Feversham of Duncombe Park, Helmsley.
The newly-given status acknowledges the "unusual design combining a Norman tower with round-headed, rusticated nave and chancel windows" and the "fine-quality marble commemoration tablet of 1841" together with the "timber font cover, and two bells".
As "a key social and spiritual building in the village", Historic England recognises that it has group value "with a number of listed houses" in Cold Kirby.
Councillor George Jabbour, who represents Cold Kirby on North Yorkshire Council and is a Member of the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “I am delighted that St Michael’s Church has been awarded a Grade II Listed status.
"Having worshipped there before it closed, I am familiar with the beautiful and historic aspects of this precious building.
"I also continue to have discussions with the local community and the Trustees of The Saint Aelred's Pilgrim Trail Society about their plans for Saint Michael's Lodge and how best to secure a sustainable future for this community gem, particularly given its strategic location on the Cleveland Way National Trail and the Saint Aelred's Pilgrim Trail.
"We are enormously fortunate to live in a breathtaking part of the country that is blessed with so many stunning natural, cultural and historic assets."
Reverend Melanie Burnside, Vicar of Helmsley and Upper Ryedale and Chair of Trustees of The Saint Aelred’s Pilgrim Trail Society, said: "We are delighted that Historic England has recognised the special significance of Saint Michael's through its Grade II listing. It is an important milestone for the building and for our vision of creating Saint Michael's Lodge.
“Saint Michael's has watched over Cold Kirby for generations. Our hope is that, through Saint Michael's Lodge, it can continue to offer its ministry of welcome, hospitality and shelter to pilgrims, walkers, riders and visitors for generations to come."