BAPTISM services in a cluster of North Yorkshire village churches are being shortened.

Fountains Rector, the Reverend Robert Sellers, said the action was being taken because services were too long and wordy.

"This is particularly so when lots of young children attend services, which we very much welcome," said the rector, who believes a baptism service lasting more than an hour is too long.

Mr Sellers, who is in charge of seven churches in the Ripon area, said the services can be made shorter without losing any impact.

The question of future baptism services arose when 34 members representing most churches in the Fountains area attended a meeting with the Bishop of Knaresborough, the Right Reverend James Bell, to discuss issues.

The conference suggested that the group of parishes should appoint someone to make follow-up visits to parents of children recently baptised.

An idea has also been suggested of sending baptism anniversary cards to remind people of the church and its role.

On average, only 14 baptisms a year take place in the group of parishes, but Mr Sellers said it was vital to keep families interested in the idea.

Another suggestion was to host an annual post-baptism service and picnic.