AFTER nearly three months with its doors firmly locked, Pershore Abbey is to open again on Monday, June 15, for individual prayer.

Social distancing will be necessary and only a small part of the building will be used. Up to six people at a time will be able to enter the abbey for quiet and peaceful prayer.

Rev Claire Lording, Vicar of Pershore, said: "We are delighted to be able to open part of the abbey from 9am until 1pm every day so that people can once again have some time there.

"We know that our social media prayers and worship have been enjoyed during lockdown by more and more people, but I believe they will be thrilled that, once again, they can pray or just sit quietly in this ancient and lovely place of worship."

Visitors, who are encouraged to bring face masks, will be provided with chairs spaced well apart and hand cleaning facilities.

Normal church services will not be able to go ahead yet because of the numbers involved. "Like everyone else at this time," said Rev Lording, "We want to be very careful how we go forward and keep everyone as safe as we can.

"But I am sure everyone will be thrilled to see the abbey doors open wide again!"