It was truly a joint effort and on Sunday the church, parish and civic community of St Helen’s, the Parish Church of Hemsworth came together to celebrate their hard work.
After more than seven years of planning and eight weeks of work the Cross Hill's congregation gave thanks for the completion of the monumental restoration work on the churchyard walls in the town centre.
The local authority, Wakefield Council had commissioned contractor UK Restoration Services to complete extensive work to the walls in the centre of the busy market town.
Sunday's celebration brought together members of the congregation with representatives of the contractors, the council's Streetscene department, local councilor, Coun Sandra Pickin and Tony Upson, Chairman of Hemsworth Town Council. The celebration also gave thanks for the forbearance of their near neighbours whilst the work was completed.
Fr Robert Hart, Rector of Hemworth said, "It's taken long enough, but we're delighted this work is now complete and to such a high standard. The walls were in a terrible condition and it has made vast improvement to the centre of Hemsworth.
“A special thanks goes to everyone who has been involved – including our neighbours for their patience,” he added.
Picture thanks to Stuart Nicholson