A CHURCH has reported a growth in its congregation after reopening after lockdown.

The Revd Gemma Sampson, Priest In Charge at St Aidan’s in ​Hartlepool, said: "We reopened on the first Sunday and welcomed in new people and had the best attendance we’ve had at any mass since I can remember.

“It was a brilliant experience and people commented on how safe they felt so, all round, it was great – What a blessing.”

Churches were allowed to open last week, though some are continuing online worship.

The Rt Revd Paul Butler Bishop of Durham will be attending St Aidan's this Sunday, at 10.45am for his first public service in a church since lockdown.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to being with Revd Gemma and her congregation at St Aidan’s this Sunday.

"Whilst I have been involved in online worship regularly in a range of ways this will be my first public service in a physical church building since March.

"Over the coming weeks, it will be normal for there to be a range of churches open and others remaining closed. Online worship will be continuing, and in some form is likely to be with us to stay.”