Sir Titus Salt’s mausoleum at Saltaire has been repainted in its original colours as part of major restoration work at the village’s United Reformed Church.

The second phase of the scheme, which has cost around £215,000, is nearing completion with windows in the mausoleum, which were smashed by vandals, also restored.

Len Morris, an elder of the church, said forensic analysis was carried out to determine the building’s original colours.

A grant of £3,000 from the Henry Moore Foundation will be used to restore statues inside the church, including Titus Salt’s, but a further £10,000 is needed for the work to be carried out, he said.

The first phase of the project, which totalled £225,000, included the restoration of the canopy and steps at the front of the building. The work was carried out following a £125,000 grant from English Heritage and also saw new lighting installed near the church’s car park.

Mr Morris paid tribute to the backing received from residents and visitors over the years.

He said: “We have been greatly supported by local people and visitors in raising the money, for which the church is very grateful.”

Mr Morris said the third phase of the project would include providing facilities and access for disabled people as well as the development of the lower rooms of the church to provide an education centre for visiting school and university students.

The church, built by Sir Titus Salt in 1859, is a unique example of Italianate religious architecture. It boasts many architecturally and historically important features and has been described as a classic “Cathedral of Congregationalism”.

e-mail: hannah.baker @telegraphandargus.co.uk