A CONGREGATION was surprised to learn that its church has been used for 140 years without a licence for public worship.

The error came to light when officials of the Victorian church in the hamlet of Marishes near Malton, North Yorkshire, set out to rectify another oversight, that the church has never been dedicated to a saint.

Now, the York Diocesan Board is being asked to grant a licence and name the church after St Francis of Assisi.

Church stalwart Brenda Beal said: "We decided on St Francis because of his love of the countryside and his simplicity and we thought it was appropriate for Marishes."

The congregation is also asking for it to be solemnised for weddings.

Mrs Beal said: "In the past, we have had to get special licences when local people have wanted to get married here.

"That can be a complicated and long, drawn-out procedure so we have decided to have it licensed for all services."

The move comes after a decision by the congregation and the village to keep the church open after its future had been in doubt.

Several thousands of pounds was raised to restore the slate roof.