Businessman Carl Searle, of Searle's Carpets, Ilkley’s oldest family-run flooring business, rose to the challenge of providing new carpets for the belfry at All Saints' Church, Ilkley.

Carl was assisted by Thomas Wiggin in his task of squeezing the rolls of carpet up the church tower’s 51 steps ready for fitting in the ringing room.

Tower Captain Sue Green said: “Now that we've spruced up the ringing room at All Saints', we're planning for Ilkley's Tour de France celebrations next July. “Ringing for the Jubilee and the Olympic torch was great fun and we enjoyed holding our Open Tower sessions. We'll do some again in July.

“There’s still time to ‘learn the ropes' and be part of next summer’s great event – on the day, the church tower will be one of the best places to view the Tour! New ringers are very welcome, and no previous experience is needed.”

Anyone interested should get in touch with Sue Green on (01943) 864081 or visit ilkleybellringing.org.uk.