VIDEO: Why Sheffield's Women of Steel statue is now dressed in priest's clothing

Protests opposed to the new Bishop of Sheffield's views on ordination of women were seen dressing the iconic statues in traditional priest's attire.

The statues were also seen holding holding protest placards which bore the words 'This is what a priest looks like' and 'What would women of steel do?'

The protest follows comments made by the Rt Rev Philip North who is expected to be elected as Sheffield's new bishop this month.

Rev North has caused controversy by stating that he would ordain women as deacons but would not officiate at the ordination of women as priests - instead, another bishop would need to be brought in.

He still has to be elected by the diocese’s canons – some of whom are female – confirmed in office, and installed at a cathedral ceremony. However, it would be considered highly unusual for him not to be voted in.

The protest has also been timed to coincide with International Women's Day, held to commemorate the struggle for women's rights.