It is one of the district's most famous landmarks and for many couples an idyllic setting for their wedding.

Over the years many couples have chosen the historic United Reformed Church in Saltaire to make their vows.

But being shrouded in scaffolding while vital restoration work is carried out is putting off some couples.

The "cage" around the picturesque 19th century church went up during the summer to allow work on a long-awaited restoration project - funded through grants from English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Europe - to begin.

Church minister, the Reverend Allan Blue, said the work was necessary to save the building but admitted that it had contributed to a fall in the number of couples wanting to marry there.

He would normally expect to have up to 80 weddings already booked for next spring and summer but at the moment the figure stands at about 30.

He said: "A lot of brides have said they're not very keen on walking under scaffolding at their weddings.''

Church publicity officer Len Morris said: "It's still a beautiful-looking church inside. Hopefully the work will be completed and the scaffolding gone by next spring.''

More than £500,000 worth of work is being carried out at the church and the appeal fund remains open.

Anyone wishing to make a donation should contact Peter Richardson on 01274 581304.

The church's fundraising autumn fair is to be held at Shipley Library from 10am on Saturday, October 31.

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