Those wishing to attend services this Christmas time are being encouraged not to leave it too late to book their seats as church buildings reach capacity.

The Church of England has advised churches to set up free ticketing online booking systems to ensure adequate physical distancing can be maintained. 

Covid-19 restrictions mean the already popular Christmas services are quickly filling up. 

St Paul's Cathedral has no tickets left for its in-person Christmas services.

While York Minster took to Twitter to announce tickets for its 23rd and 24th Carols for Christmas services had sold out, although the services will be livestreamed. 

Other churches have added additional services to their programmes to keep up with demand while advising online bookings. 

The Church of England also urged churches to add their services and events to its 'A Church Near You' page.

A spokesperson for the Church of England said: "At Christmas, when around 6 million people of all ages wish to attend services to celebrate the birth of Jesus, Covid-19 has meant it is necessary to limit capacity of church buildings to keep everyone safe.

"Churches and cathedrals are using different methods to ensure as many people are able to attend services as possible, by free ticketing, increasing the number of services, outdoor worship, and broadcasting services online.

"There will also be a national online midnight mass led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, bringing Comfort and Joy to anyone who is unable to attend church in person.

"And The Daily Hope telephone line provides worship and music for anyone who is unable to stream services."