New national church guidance has been written following last week's announcement of a third national lockdown.

The Bishop of Carlisle, Bishop James, has written a briefing to clergy, highlighting the Church of England's guidance from the government.

Topics include which activities are permitted during lockdown, wedding and funeral guidance, and whether communal worship can be carried out.

Worship is considered a reasonable excuse to leave home, and communal worship can therefore take place, provided that any person attending is alone or part of a group from the same household, or from two linked households.

Funerals and weddings can take place under strict guidance, with only six people permitted to attend weddings.

Bishop James has reiterated that rigorous risk assessments are needed for churches which choose to remain open at this time.

For more information, visit the Church of England website.