The unlocked church doors were a sign that all were welcome, perhaps for a moment of quiet reflection in the presence of God.  But the Reverend Andrew Yates might have been a little less welcoming had he known the intentions of one group of visitors.

Photographer Andy Craddock, his girlfriend and a couple of models used the vicar’s church in Cornwall as the backdrop for an erotic photoshoot. Now solicitors acting on behalf of Mr Yates have written to the photographer accusing him of blasphemy.

They say that the publication of the pictures on his website, which include naked girls alongside religious symbols, is blasphemous, regardless of his intentions.

They have also threatened him with legal action for trespassing, saying public access to the church is ‘for worship or related church activities’ and he did not have permission for his photography.