Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Saltburn reopened for the first time since lockdown with a “heartening” attendance of 37 at Sunday Mass on August 23, writes JOHN ROCK.

Parish priest Monsignor Ricardo Morgan said he was pleased  with the numbers booking in,  though it was half the usual attendance pre-lockdown.

“Our guidelines say 40 is the maximum allowed to keep within social distancing restrictions and all seemed happy to be wearing face-masks,” he said.

New features at the church, taking in the reordering of the sanctuary area, include green carpet tiling and a pulpit of white marble, similar to the altar.

A new hedge and mini bush which will spread to minimise weeding has been planted by the road following pavement widening.

Passers-by have been pausing at the bench opposite the grotto and a sunflower competition was held.

Three Masses are being celebrated each week, on Sunday at 10.30am, Wednesday at 10am and Saturday at 6pm.

Book for Mass by calling 077611 44707 on Thursdays from 10am to noon or 6pm to 8pm.