Although parted by about 11,500 miles, Yvonne Atkin was able to make her pledge as a godparent to her sister Janet’s seven-month-old son, see him at the font and take part in the service – all thanks to modern technology.

Yvonne was at home in New Zealand, but was still involved in the service at St Mark’s Church, Utley, because vicar Derek Walmsley gave the go-ahead to rig up a Skype computer link.

It is believed to be the first use of Skype in such an environment in the Bradford diocese.

Yvonne was able to watch and take part in the promises as Janet Wordley, 34, and her husband Chris, 43, held the baptism of their first child, Matthew, at 10.30am on Sunday – 9.30pm in New Zealand.

Janet, of Silsden, said: “We’re delighted the link worked. My sister is such a great distance away. She was able to see everything and take part, and the family were able to chat to her after the service, too.”

The last time Yvonne saw Matthew was when he was just a few weeks old. She will see him again in July when she comes back to England for her wedding to Deon. Janet will be a maid of honour at the ceremony.

Yvonne met her fiance in New Zealand where she went to work as a nurse two years ago.

Mr Walmsley, who performed the baptism, said: “It’s always fun – and something of a challenge – trying to hold the baby over the font, pour the water, get the names correct and say the right words, but making sure it’s all in camera shot makes it even more interesting.”

  • Read the full story in Tuesday's T&A