GREAT Ayton's new Roman Catholic church was formally opened on Sunday by the Bishop of Middlesbrough.

The building continues a long professional relationship between the diocese and a Cleveland architects' firm. St Margaret's church is octagon-shaped and cost £500,000 to build.

Inside are contemporary stained glass and furniture made by leading craftsmen in Cleveland and North Yorkshire.

It was opened by the Rt Rev John Crowley at the Feast of the Epiphany service, accompanied by parish priest, the Mgr Ray Charlton.

The contemporary design is by architects who also worked on the modern Roman Catholic cathedral at Coulby Newham, erected in the 80s.

Mr Martin Desmond, of Linthorpe-based DKS Architects, said the facilities at St Margaret's were far superior to those of its wooden predecessor. "Part of the old timber framed hall was demolished to create space for the new building. The remaining part will continue to be a community facility for various activities such as ballet classes, play groups and the bridge club," he said.

"The octagonal shape satisfies current liturgical design requirements, which aim to encourage greater participation in services. The shape is also appropriate to the constraints of the site."

The selection of materials was carefully considered and discussed with Hambleton council. Some concerns were raised about the proposals by residents during the planning process last year.

Red brick, grey roof slates and art-stone detailing has been used and the main building work was carried out by Northallerton firm Walter Thompson. Treske furniture, in Thirsk, refurbished original wooden furniture and made some new pieces from ash.

Middlesbrough-based Kyme glass studios created two colourful windows. It has worked on a number of church window projects, including the parish hall at nearby Kirby-in-Cleveland.

Mr Desmond said the new church was paid for by parishioners. The previous church had no architectural value, so the parish could not apply for any grants to assist with planning or construction costs.

DKS was formed last year, following the merger of the Desmond Knudsen and Swainston partnerships. Swainston's has designed a number of church buildings in the region.