VISITORS to a small parish church in Preston have been granted a heavenly countryside view thanks to the help of a group of BNFL graduate trainees.

Following a request from Father Giles Allen, of the Lund Church, a few hundred yards from BNFL's Springfields site, three trainee chartered engineers have constructed safety grilles for the open windows of the church tower.

BNFL workers Duncan Grundy, Richard Moss and Paul Ryan designed and produced seven safety grilles for the large open windows high up in the church belfry which was added to the existing building in 1873.

Once fitted the new grilles will enable parishioners to climb the tower for a clear view of the picturesque landscape for as far as the eye can see.

The church project was a chance for the graduates to put their basic engineering skills to good practice including welding, electrical work, pipework and hydraulics work.

"This project provided us with some practical experience and enabled us to apply the engineering skills we have leant at Springfields," said Duncan.

Engineering skills instructor, Dave Porter, added: "Until now the lads haven't had the chance to put into practice the skills they have learnt," he said. "It is nice that the local community will also benefit from their training."

Fr Allen was delighted with the firm's offer of help and is eager to see plenty of people visiting the belfry to enjoy the church's fantastic views.

"I am very pleased with the safety grilles," he said.