A NEW anthem had its first performance when Choral Evensong returned to a Darlington church for the first time since lockdowns began.

Becci Bell, a chorister at St Cuthbert's, composed and conducted God of All Creation, which was sung for the the first time at the market place church on Saturday.

The church's choir led singers from across the town during the service, which reintroduced Choral Evensong according to the Book of Common Prayer.

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It has not been running since before the first lockdown in March 2020 but will now take place on the second Saturday of each month at 5pm. All are welcome to attend.

The preacher on Saturday was the Rev James Harvey, Priest in Charge of St Cuthbert’s, and the organist and cantor was David Ratnanayagam, St Cuthbert’s director of music.

Anyone who would like to take part can email stcuthbertsdarlington@gmail.com.

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