A CHURCH is holding an open day on Saturday, May 3 to show the work it has been doing on a conservation project in its church yard.

St Andrew’s Church, Grinton, near Reeth, is continuing its conservation project for its second year, with an aim to provide good conditions for local flora and fauna, and create an interesting place for visitors.

Over the last year work has progressed thanks to members of the local community who have helped to survey the churchyard and record wildflowers, trees and resident bird life. One group of volunteers has focused on environmentally friendly maintenance, including learning to scythe.

Funding has now been secured from the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust for two of bee-hives in the churchyard.

On Saturday, May 3, there will be an open day in the church and churchyard from 10.30am to 1pm with talks and practical demonstrations. Entry is free and refreshments will be available. As well as information on bees and bee keeping, there will be a scything demonstration by Mark Hewitt, wildlife officer for the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with a chance to try the techniques, as well as a wild flower walk.