FEAR cannot be allowed to dominate churches in the wake of the horrific attack on a French priest, says a Keighley clergyman.

The Rev Mike Cansdale said awareness was needed, but that church buildings should be open and welcoming.

He was speaking following the brutal killing of 86-year-old Father Jacques Hamel in a Normandy church by two men who had pledged allegiance to so-called Islamic State.

West Yorkshire Police said this week it was paying increased attention to places of worship, to reassure communities.

And it is advising churches to review their security arrangements.

The Rev Cansdale, who has just stood down as vicar of Morton and Riddlesden and will soon become team rector in Keighley's newly-formed United Parish, said: "What happened in France was absolutely horrible and has shocked everyone.

"Those in responsibility at churches do need to be aware of the security issue.

"But also we have to guard against generating anxiety. We cannot allow this to dominate and create fear.

"Keighley churches have good relations with their communities.

"This is an opportunity for us to work further together, build on that sense of cohesion and explore ways of combating hate.

"Churches should be open and welcoming and that continues to be a priority."

Police said that while there was no specific intelligence relating to potential attacks against the Christian community in West Yorkshire or across the UK, they realised that recent events in Europe had increased concerns among communities and individuals.

West Yorkshire's Assistant Chief Constable, Russ Foster, said: "We will be contacting religious establishments of all faiths encouraging them to review their security arrangements.

"In addition, patrols will be paying increased attention to premises.

"Terrorist activity is designed to create fear and disharmony within communities.

"The most effective way to keep our communities safe is to report incidents of hate, intolerance and extremism.

"By working together, we can identify individuals of concern and intervene early.

"This could be by disrupting extremist speakers and denying them a platform, or through working with partners such as mental health professionals, to address issues of vulnerability before they have an opportunity to escalate.

"Attacks such as the one we witnessed in Normandy emphasise the need for communities to come together. There is no excuse for hate incidents or crimes and we will continue to take action against anyone guilty of committing hate crimes."