Tributes were paid to former Royston residents at an All Souls' Day service at St John the Baptist Church.

The service was performed on Sunday, October 29 by newly ordained vicar Dr Steven Sivyer, as his first major function in the role.

Aided by assistant priest Reverend John Fidler, the service remembered past residents of the town, some from 20 or more years ago.

As each name was read out a candle was lit in remembrance on a cross laid near the altar.

Passages were recited from the readings of St John and St Peter, and following the service the congregation was invited to come up and pay their respects.

Reverend Dr Sivyer commented: "It is a privilege for the church to be able to offer this time and space for people in their hope and grief."

Other activities are coming up in the church before the end of the year.

On Sunday, November 5, residents are invited to come along and 'Grill a Vicar'. 

This is an opportunity to meet Reverend Dr Sivyer and ask him anything you would like to know about himself or the church.

There will also be a family-friendly service with songs and stories, followed by tea and a chat.

On Saturday, December 2 the annual Christmas tree switch-on will take place at 10am, with mulled wine and mince pies.

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At 7pm visitors can enjoy music and dance from an earlier age, with 'Milady Clare's Musicke', a group that specialises in folk ballads.

The historic church dates from the 13th century, and the nave and aisles - which were built in around 1250 - formed the quire (an architectural term for where the choir sits) and sanctuary of a much larger building, which was part of the vast Augustinian Priory.

In 2018, there was a devastating fire at the church, causing extensive damage to much of the interior.

Restorations and improvements took four years to complete, and the church was finally reopened with a festival in November last year.

In February this year, the Bishop of St Albans held a ceremony to re-dedicate the church building.