The Pope has written to the congregation of a church in Leicester after it was severely damaged by fire at the end of last month.

Rev Johannes Arens, the vicar of St Andrew's Church in Jarrom Street told the BBC the letter was a "huge boost" for the parish community and “significant” because it is a Church of England church.

The letter was signed by Vatican official Paolo Rudelli, who wrote “His Holiness Pope Leo XIV was saddened to be informed of the fire that significantly damaged Saint Andrew’s Church, and he sends the assurances of his spiritual solidarity to all those affected.

“With hope that services can return to the church as soon as possible, His Holiness prays that the response to this disastrous event will strengthen the community and bring about a renewal in the life of the parish.

“With those sentiments, the Holy Father invokes upon you and your parishioners Almighty God’s blessings of strength, peace and consolation.” 

The fire on 28 July began on the ground floor and spread to the roof of the church, causing extensive damage. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service say they believe it was caused accidentally.

Services are currently being held in the church’s adjacent community hall.

Rev Arens said receiving the Pope's letter was "really quite significant because we are not a Roman Catholic church". 

"It was quite lovely. It is a huge boost not just for the church but for its community," he added. 

"It shows that we have friends who are with us."