A NORTH YORKSHIRE church was today celebrating after making it into the finals of a national competition which recognises the best ideas for building links with the local community.

A total of 12 finalists have now been selected in Ecclesiastical Insurance's national competition, which aims to recognise churches which play an important role in their community every day of the week.

In North Yorkshire, the Holy Trinity Church in Ripon made the shortlist.

Entries were received from 36 dioceses around the country and were judged on the links they have made with local communities, trusts, charities, businesses, education authorities, tourist authorities or cultural bodies.

Paula Griffiths, head of the Church of England's Cathedral and Church Building Division, said: "All the judges were tremendously impressed to see the wide range of inspiring ideas from parishes, responding to their own local situations and using church buildings of all ages.

The overall winner of the contest and two runners up will be announced on November 17 at a presentation ceremony held at Windsor Castle.

First prize is £1,500.

Updated: 11:55 Saturday, August 06, 2005