NEW guidance has been issued for people who are attending the Worcester News annual Christmas service.

The service will go ahead as planned on Tuesday, December 21 but people joining the congregation will be asked to wear face coverings throughout the service - including during the singing of hymns - unless they are exempt.

Those coming to Worcester Cathedral to take part in our popular Christmas service will also be encouraged to take a lateral flow test prior to arrival in a bid to keep all safe amid rising levels of Covid and uncertainty over the Omicron variant.

A one-way entrance and exit system will be in place to ensure that people can find and leave their seats in the smoothest way possible.

Entry to the Cathedral for all will be via the main north door from College Yard only, at all times.

The Cathedral will open for the 6.30pm service from 5.45pm.

People are asked to be in their seats 15 minutes before the start but not to turn up early.

Julie Bolton, Worcester News sales manager, said: "I'm looking forward to welcoming everyone to the Worcester News Carol Service.

"It’s a lovely event that we know really symbolises the start of Christmas for many of our readers.

"This year, in line with the guidance for all places of worship, we are asking for people to be considerate of others and take a few extra precautions to help keep us all safe.

"We hope all who attend enjoy it and I'd like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas."

The free Worcester News Christmas carol concert is held every year at Worcester Cathedral.

All tickets for this year's event have been allocated.