The government have relaxed its coronavirus guidance for places of worship meaning from this weekend, worship groups and choirs can now sing in churches.

Up until now, only a professional singer had been allowed to perform behind a perspex screen.

While the changes will we welcomed by many, congregations are still advised not to sing.

The relaxing of the laws comes after pressure was put on the government by church leaders who questioned the reasoning behind allowing a professional singer but not a volunteer worship leader.

The new guidance states: "Small groups of professional or non-professional singers will be able to sing in front of worshippers both outdoors and indoors from 15 August. Singing in groups should be limited to a small set group of people and should not include audience participation.

"Where music plays a big part in worship, and recordings are available, we suggest you consider using these as an alternative to live singing.

"Any instrument played during worship should be cleaned thoroughly before and after use.

There's still no indication of when congregational singing will be permitted again. Public Health England has been carrying out tests.

Concerns surround the passing of droplets when singing which may lead to a spread of coronavirus.

The changes for places of worship come at a time where further lockdown restrictions are eased.

Beauty salons and barbers have been given the go-ahead to offer close contact treatments, and indoor theatres, bowling alleys, casinos, and music venues can re-open.