One thousand people have gathered together at the Keswick Convention where they were able to sing together in person for the first time in over eighteen months.

The convention is hosted by Keswick Ministries and spans three weeks.

Rev Alasdair Paine from Keswick Ministries set the scene before the worship band led the congregation in singing Great Is Thy Faithfulness, on Monday.

Reflecting on the singing restrictions, Rev Alasdair said: "It's been for good reasons. But it's been the repressing of the instinct of the Christian heart to sing. Now for the first time in all those months, we are able to sing together."

Guidelines on the Convention website read:

"Due to the English Government guidelines we will not be able to sing on 17th and 18th July. However, we will be able to sing from Monday 19th July onwards. You will need to keep your mask on at all times whilst you are in an enclosed space.

"Lateral Flow tests are obligatory for all over the age of 11. Tests should be taken before you travel to the Convention and then Wednesday morning before coming on site, each week."

The Convention includes: Morning Bible Readings, Seminars, Keswick Lectures and Evening Celebrations.

There's also a "Families Together" morning slot for children under the age of 11 and their families, including Bible teaching, songs, and activities around tables for families to enjoy.