A traditional church service for members of the judiciary has been cancelled because of coronavirus.

Eastern Daily Press: The service, due to take place at Lynn Minster on Sunday, has been cancelled Picture: Ian BurtThe service, due to take place at Lynn Minster on Sunday, has been cancelled Picture: Ian Burt

Hundreds were expected to attend the King's Lynn Justice Service at Lynn Minster on Sunday.

But the church's website says: 'The justice service planned for Sunday, March 15 at 11.30am has been cancelled due to the current situation regarding the coronavirus.'

Traditionally, justice services were held to pray that God gave his blessing and guidance to the visiting high court judges in their work.

The ancient service, hosted by the High Sheriff of Norfolk, traditionally began with a procession from the town hall on the Saturday Market Place to the nearby church, where a fanfare would be sounded when judges arrived.

In an e-mail to attendees High Sheriff Lady Agnew said: I am really sorry to announce that I have taken the decision to cancel the Justice Service on Sunday to do my bit to reduce the opportunities that it might have given for the coronavirus to spread.

'The judiciary in all its forms, and all the other groups and volunteers within Norfolk that do such a great job supporting our communities, need congratulating and celebrating - but clearly not this Sunday.

'With great regret and particular thanks to Caroline Fleming, Jules Stutchbury, Chris Ivory and Adrian Richards for all their amazing hard work and support to get it prepared and ready to go, and best wishes.'