German church leaders are researching a priest who fled to Keighley during the Second World War.

They hope to include the Rev Heinz Arnold in a history of German pastors of Jewish origin who escaped to England.

Mr Arnold served at a now-demolished Keighley church immediately after the war.

The church in Germany has approached the diocese for information about Mr Arnold.

Diocese spokesman John Hansen said Mr Arnold was savagely beaten by the SS — Hitler’s most ruthless troops — and left for dead.

Mr Hansen said: “He crawled home on his hands and knees and was then taken to a concentration camp.

“Somehow he was freed and got to England and with the help of Bishop Bell, of Chichester, he trained for the Church of England priesthood.”

Mr Arnold became curate of St Mary the Virgin Church, Eastwood, from 1945 to 1948.

The church, built in 1855, stood alongside Dalton Mills and was demolished several years ago.

The writers of the history book also hope to find a photograph of Mr Arnold.

Anyone who can help should contact Mr Hansen on 01535 275937 or johnhansen@wilsden37.fsnet.co.uk.