TWO churches and an abandoned medieval village are among the historic sites that have been “saved” from the at-risk list published by Historic England.

The register reveals the historic sites in Yorkshire most at risk of being lost forever as a result of neglect, decay or inappropriate development, along with those that have been saved.

Over the last year, 52 historic buildings and sites have been saved in the county, including Foston Medieval Settlement.

A spokesman for English Heritage said: “Although Foston is still occupied, features of the abandoned medieval settlement surround the current village. Foston’s remaining archaeological features are an important repository for teaching us about medieval village life and the site is being well monitored by the landowners who understand the importance of the site and keep it well maintained.”

Among the 13 churches saved from the register this year is St John of Beverley in Salton, which is a particularly complete Norman church, rebuilt after the earlier church was destroyed by fire. Also rescued is the Church of St Andrew in Middleton, which has origins dating back more than 1,000 years.

The church boasts a collection of Viking crosses, which date to between AD876 and 954, as well as a lead panel from the original roof, complete with historic graffiti of a hand and footprints which can be seen within the church. Both have received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Salton church warden Jill Hopkins said: “All the people in the Salton area are delighted, relieved and proud that their Norman church, described as a ‘Yorkshire Gem’ has been taken off the English Heritage At Risk list.

“The last time the church had a major overhaul was 1881, so there was a lot of work to be done, including replacing the chancel roof, repairing the nave roof, and importantly re-doing the drainage system. Already after the year’s work by Bridgett Construction, overseen by architect Andrew Wiles the church looks so much better, and the interior looks and smells dry.”