Coronavirus: All services at Melton churches cancelled until further notice

It means the traditional Easter services will not go ahead at the town’s St Mary’s Church at one of its busiest times of the year.

Church choir practice, bell ringing, organ recitals and Thursday Tiny Tots sessions are all also suspended at St Mary’s until further notice.

But weddings and funerals could still take place at the historic church if they are small gatherings.

Rev Kevin Ashby, the Melton team rector, told the Melton Times: “Nothing like this has happened before and I still need time to get my head around it all.

“I am going to have to do a lot of my business via phone and text messages and occasionlly shouting through people’s windows as I have to be careful with people self-isolating.

“Our main challenge is how we keep in contact with our folk because many of those who attend church are in the age group where they are self-isolating, as are many of those in my team.

“People have already begun ringing me and asking for help with picking up their prescriptions or their shopping and we have a list of people who can help them.

“Churches Together will also be working to support the more vulnerable members of our society.”

Rev Ashby said St Mary’s would be open for people to pray during the week and it was sufficiently big for visitors to isolate themselves from others.

He commented: “We are taking advice from the government all the time but I would imagine weddings will still go ahead in St Mary’s.

“Funerals should also be held although I did advise one family where lots of people are likely to attend to perhaps hold a cremation now and then a larger memorial service when restrictions are relaxed.”

Rev Ashby added: “The great thing about a community like Melton is that people will pull together to get us through all this.

“We just need people to show a little common sense to help others and not to bulk buy things so the more vulnerable members of society can get what they need.”

Oher cancelled services at St Mary’s are Wednesday Litany and Communion, Thursday Holy Communion, Baptism Preparations, Evensong; Stainer’s Crucifixion on March 29, the Lent Course and all refreshments after services.

The Pram Club and Care and Share Lunches, which are held in nearby Mary’s Place, on Burton Street, will also not be held for now.

No services will take place either in St James’ Church, Burton Lazars, or at St Mary the Virgin Church, Thorpe Arnold, until further notice.