Dutch church 'tilts more than Leaning Tower of Pisa'

A Dutch church is tilting more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it has been reported.

The 12th century tower of Walfridus in Bedum now claims to be Europe's wonkiest building, leaning eight feet and six inches to one side.

Jacob van Dijk explains that if the Dutch tower were as tall as the Italian landmark then it would lean two inches further.

He adds: "In Italy they're happy with the result [of straightening works], but here in Bedum we are much more happy, because the tower of Pisa is now leaning less than the tower of Bedum."

Like Bedum's church, the Leaning Tower of Pisa was built in the 12th century and gained recognition for its bent stature.

However, to preserve the building the Italian authorities have taken steps to restore the tower.

The Lonely Planet travel guide describes Holland as a nation where the chief pleasure is a "lively contrast between pragmatic liberalism and [a] button-up just-so primness".