Weymouth’s town centre church St Mary’s has reopened for Sunday services.

The first service was held on Sunday, July 19 at 10.30am when a handful or regular parishioners underwent hand sanitation procedures, registration for the government’s track and trace programme and careful social distancing to celebrate together.

Only recorded hymns were allowed in church, although the final one was sung live by church warden, Iona McLeod located in the adjacent Simeon Room on her own.

Town centre chaplain Neil Biles, said: “Although the church building has been closed, the church community have very much been active. We have continued to pray for the town on Zoom, in our homes and in our communities so it is a joy to see people return to pray in St Mary’s Church.”

Those who are still shielding at home can join the service through Zoom technology.

The church is also open every Tuesday and Thursday from 11am to 2.30pm for private prayer.