In compliance with the 'Rule of six' and specific police instructions, members of Churches Together in Kenilworth and District (CTKD) were able to quietly raise the cross on Abbey Hill very early on Good Friday morning.

Whilst no ceremony nor display were allowed, church leaders Christine Flood, Val Whiteman, Father Kevin Hooper, George Jones, Revd Jim Perryman and Keith Grierson were able to raise the cross and say prayers for the community and the nation. They then quietly and quickly dispersed.

Later in the day successive groups of six people from St John's Church were able to undertake a prayer vigil at the foot of the cross, arranged by Revd Rob Latham.

This was in marked contrast to the usual custom and practice over many years on Good Fridays, when CTKD congregations have processed from St John's Church, held an open-air service with hymns in the town centre, and then proceeded to Abbey Hill to raise the cross.

Traditionally tea and hot cross buns are then enjoyed by all at the nearby united reformed church. The event is always attended by very large crowds.

Keith Grierson CTKD Chairman said "It was very important to our church members to raise the cross on this principal day in the christian calendar, noting the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. This was not possible last year.

"The Cross will be left in position throughout the following week, which is a positive sign to all, that we really are on the long journey back to normality!"

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