FOLLOWING on from new government measures, churches in the Whitchurch parish will now close to the public.

Usual public services were already cancelled at St Alkmund's in Whitchurch, Holy Immanuel Fauls and Christ Church Tilstock, but the churches were initially still open for prayers.

But with the government now putting restrictions on 'non-essential' travel, Reverend Judy Hunt says her congregation should now pray from home.

"There will be no public services in our three churches until further notice as we follow the national guidelines on coronavirus," said Revd Hunt.

"Also, we have now been asked to close the church buildings.

"The ministry of the church will continue daily prayers for our communities led by either Revd Hunt or Jane Rylands in their own homes.

"We have a system in place for co-ordinating those needing help and those offering to provide that help.

"In combination with the wider church, we are offering online and printed resources for prayer and Christian nurture."

Usually those who want to ask about booking baptisms, weddings and the reading of banns are asked to come to the Rector's Vestry time in church on a Tuesday evening, but enquiries are now directed to Revd Hunt on a Tuesday evening between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on 01948 667253.

"Please be assured of our prayers for you all and of the practical help we hope to be able to offer," added Revd Hunt.