Churchmen from around the country attended the UK and Ireland Airport Chaplains’ Network conference when it was held for the first time at Leeds Bradford Airport.

 Twenty-eight chaplains gathered to talk about their work and to learn more about the day-to-day operations at the Yeadon-based airport.

The Chaplaincy at LBA was set up last year by the Rev Nick Baker, of Guiseley Methodist Church. Since then the Rev Richard Dimery, of St James Church in Horsforth, has joined the service to represent the Church of England.

During the meeting, the Right Reverend John Packer, Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, discussed the positive relationship between the established church and the development of chaplaincy work.

Delegates also heard from Leeds-Bradford Airport’s chief executive John Parkin and Jim Taylor, from Jet2.com. They finished with a tour of the airport, including a visit to the fire station where the fire crew demonstrated the latest vehicle to be added to the fleet of fire appliances.

Mr Baker said: “This session has enabled us to engage and gain a greater understanding of the wider context of faith and the airport chaplaincy service. This bodes well for the development of further relationships with other faith communities in our region.”

 Mr Parkin said: “We are delighted to host the Chaplaincy Network and share valuable experiences and knowledge with other airports.

“A chaplaincy provides pastoral and spiritual care to all who work at the airport and for all those who travel through it, irrespective of faith or religious belief.

“Leeds-Bradford Airport plays an important role in our local community and I am pleased that we are able to offer this on-site assistance and support for both staff and passengers”