A chilling discovery has been made underneath the floor of Sithney Parish Church.

Builders relaying the floor of St Sithney were shocked to find skeletons hidden under the church floor.

Contract builder Shaun Rothwell, from Rothwell Historical Restorations, said: “Our builders were not surprised by the finding of a few bones to begin with, but then got a shock when, the more they dug, the more full skeletons were discovered.”

The find halted work as advice was sought from the police and the coroner. However, after both parties were satisfied that the skeletons were neither recent nor suspicious, work was allowed to continue - this time exploring what else could be found.

It means that work on rebuilding the floor has been stopped while archaeologists dig further.

It appears that the bones were left in situ after a Victorian restoration of the church.

Archaeologist James Gossip, from Cornwall Archaeological Unit, said: “This work has uncovered some important facts, adding to our knowledge not only of life in Sithney and past burial practice but also helping us understand how St Sithney Church developed over time.”

Rev Dr Peter Johnson said: “Whilst these finds put a block on the continuation of our restoration we are mindful that we want to respect those who previously worshipped and lived in the parish.

"We shall plan a dignified re-burial of the bones and these remains will, as our church treasurer said, ‘continue under the care of St Sithney'."

Members of the public will be able to get a chance to see the bones themselves later this month when the church holds an open afternoon.

The Parish Church Council of St Sithney Church will hold a short viewing session when members of the public will be able to get a limited view of part of the current dig on Thursday, August 30 from 2pm to 4pm.