A Saltaire church is faced with a massive clean-up bill after vandals smashed a car into the building.

The cost of repairing the damage at the United Reformed Church could run into tens of thousands of pounds, and the church could be left to foot part of the bill.

Hans Poot, property steward, said the church - described by English Heritage as one of Saltaire's most important buildings - is insured against disasters such as fire and flood, but not for "impact".

"There are about 20 different categories to choose from for what you insure," said Mr Poot.

"We are covered against things like arson or theft. But 'impact' is something completely new to us."

A Vauxhall Cavalier was driven into a stairwell leading to the church basement on July 22 before it was set on fire.

The blaze spread to the church basement, damaging the toilet area. It also caused smoke damage in the church hall and to the exterior of the building.

The car also dislodged a huge stone block in a side wall, and the heat from the fire caused discolouring to stone work.

The fire damage will be covered by insurance. But the church will have to pay about £1,000 to reposition the stone block and erect new railings.

Architects Rance Booth and Smith have been drafted in to help with the restoration work on the Grade One-listed building.

Tim Smith, a partner with the firm, said it was important the work was done quickly to deter further attacks.

"I'm sure it can be repaired, but the sooner it's done the better," he said.

"We don't want to see the area damaged further. It could deteriorate very quickly."

Mr Smith is in talks with English Heritage to discuss the necessary repair work.

Giles Proctor, English Heritage's historic building architect, described the church as one of Saltaire's most important buildings.

"Obviously we are extremely concerned that this has happened," he said.

"We are hoping that the trustees of the church will use this as an opportunity to review night time security. The fact that this damage could happen is extremely worrying.

"If people are driving into the church yard and racing around it may be an idea to do something simple like padlock the gates at night."