THIS is an Easter like no other for the congregations of South Cumbrian churches.

Their doors remain closed due to social distancing rules made necessary in the nation’s response to the coronavirus.

Many individual faith groups are sending Easter messages or having virtual services streaming live on social media.

Today’s pictures from 20 years ago show a Barrow public celebration of faith seen in more normal times.

The Mail on April 25 in 2000, noted: “Easter celebrations attracted large crowds of shoppers.

"They flocked to  the streets of Barrow town centre during the bank holiday weekend.

“Christians from the Churches Together in Barrow ecumenical group celebrated the Easter festival at the crossroads of Portland Walk and Dalton Road on Saturday.”

There was a procession with a cross carried by Neil Johnson to Portland Walk from Barrow Town Hall.

As you will see from the picture below, members of the cadets also took part in the procession.

There was also an hour-long service featuring joyful music.

Among those leading the ceremony were the Reverend Paul Day, of St Mark’s Church and the Reverend Tim Harrison, representing Barrow Methodists.