THERE WAS drama in Perth yesterday as highly- skilled steeplejacks scaled one of the town’s tallest landmarks.

In scenes reminiscent of the Spiderman films, dis-believing eyes were raised skyward as brave workmen clambered up the St Matthew’s Church steeple.

Pedestrians were spellbound as the dizzying height of the church tower was surrounded by lightweight scaling ladders.

Harnessed steeplejacks then carried out a detailed check of the structure.

Jim Smyth, fabric convener at St Matthew’s, explained the reasons behind the adventurous high-wire activities.

“Over the course of the next few days we have engaged specialist contractors to conduct a 10-year inspection of the church steeple,” he said.

“A structure of its size and importance to the city requires inspection at close quarters and careful monitoring of its condition.”

Meanwhile, the Rev Scott Burton, minister at St Matthew’s, was delighted to quash rumours he was responsible for the works.

“It is true I urged the congregation to raise the roof on Sunday, and they certainly responded in tremendous voice,” he said.

“However, I can assure members and visitors to St Matthew’s that the two are not connected.”

The impressive work, which is set to continue for the next two or three days, is being carried out by Pendrich Rope Access and Height Services Ltd.

The firm is no stranger to working in dramatic situations having previously been mobilised to deal with the high-profile emergency within the Scottish Parliament debating chamber when a support beam came loose and hung precariously above the MSPs’ heads.

Delighted that his church has become the site of such interest, Mr Burton said he hoped people would also be intrigued by what goes on inside the building.

“We will be opening our doors to everyone as part of Doors Open Day in Perth on September 20 and 21,” he continued.

“In addition, we are open most mornings for people to have a look round, to pray if they want, or just to take time out and find peace.”

And while one is perhaps unlikely to find inner peace while harnessed several hundred feet above ground, the venture certainly proved a popular talking point among town centre shoppers transfixed by the unusual events unfolding above.