Anglican churches in Peasedown St John and Wellow have announced details of their re-opening next week for private prayer only, in line with government guidelines.

St John’s, Peasedown, and St Julian’s Wellow, have been closed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in March.

Vicar of both churches, Revd Matthew Street, said: “We’ve been planning for weeks how we could re-open, and how we could do it safely.

Religious buildings, such as churches, play an important role in the life of any community. So, for us it’s important we get it right!”

St. John’s Church, Peasedown will re-open on Sundays between 2pm and 4pm for private prayer.

St. Julian’s Church Wellow will re-open on Thursdays between 10am and 12pm for private prayer.

St. James’ Church Foxcote, the third parish in Revd Street’s St J’s Group benefice, will remain closed at present.

“Please be aware that some areas of both churches will be inaccessible, hymn books, and printed literature will be temporarily removed, and a one-way system will be in place. We ask that you only sit if you need to and don’t touch any surfaces,” added Revd Street.

A register will be kept to help inform visitors if a Covid-19 infection has occurred with the users of the building during the time they were present. There will be no toilet facilities.

For details about the three churches in the St J’s Group Benefice visit www.stjsgroup.church, or contact the Operations Manager Rob Bubyer by emailing [email protected]ch or calling 07973 972018.