New handrails and replacement streetlamps have been agreed for St Mary's Church at Tower Hill, Netherbury.

Dorset Council has agreed to the additions to the Grade I listed building which has parts of the building dating back to the 14th century with additions in the 15th and 19th centuries.

The new wrought iron handrails will be installed along the south approach pathway along with three cast iron Victorian-style street lamps to replace those now considered to be a the end of their time.

One of the neighbours of the church wrote in support of the application saying the new lights would increase security at the building which has suffered a break-in and the desecration of memorial plaques in the last couple of years.

Said the letter: "The installation of wrought iron handrails is of vital importance. The paths are incredibly slippery when wet and are very much a safety hazard. We do have a large number of elderly people who use the church, some of whom will not visit the church if the paths are wet. This restricts their attendance to the church or to private prayer. Even younger people have slipped on them. A fortnight ago a lady in her 60's fell and broke her elbow."