THE Bishop of Hereford Anthony Priddis proved he had a head for heights as he was lifted high above the roof of Ledbury parish church to bless its new solar panels.

Historic St Michael and All Angels has recently had 54 solar panels installed on its roof.

Rev Priddis was hoisted up by a cherry picker to deliver his blessing on Monday morning (May 9).

Paul Dunthorne, vicar at St Michael and All Angels, said: “Because it is a Grade I listed building it has taken a long time to get the necessary planning permission, but patience paid off and now the panels are up there and working.

“It is amazing how the church, which has served the community here for more than 1,000 years has changed and adapted during that time and is a building used widely, as well as for worship, attracting over 20,000 visitors each year. Now we are producing our own power here in the 21st Century, something our forefathers could not have even imagined when this church was built.”

He added: “The unification of old and new has to be seen to be believed although the 10 kilowatts peak power of electricity that can be generated is probably clear enough proof. We are the first church in the Diocese to do this and hope that it’s the first of many in the future.”