Mystery worshippers have been spying on services, facilities and congregations at churches in Calderdale.

And while the word of the Lord is praised on high, they are busy making notes on everything from the yawn factor of a sermon to the numbing discomfort of the pews.

Just as mystery shoppers consumer test retail stores, these undercover researchers have been commissioned to reveal all about modern-day ecclesiastical trends by a prominent Christian group.

And that includes, importantly, how they are welcomed as total strangers by the other churchgoers.

But is it right for such subterfuge to be taking place in the house of God?

Will its organisers be struck down by fire and brimstone as a consequence?

And have they found out anything other than what we already knew?

That, sadly they say, congregations in general are both ageing and shrinking.

"The holier-than-thou, Sunday best, twin-set and pearls image is long gone," says a spokesman for the sponsors of this research. Well Hallelujah to that.

The spies also report that on the whole churches were relaxed and inclusive, open to visitors and committed to their communities.

All of which will come as a blessed relief. It may even encourage people to pick up their hymn books again.

For that reason alone this survey, no matter how devious, would appear to have been a worthwhile exercise.