A VICAR brought a smile to people's faces on Saturday afternoon amid the uncertainty over the coronavirus outbreak.

Reverend Alan Saunders climbed to the top of Christ Church Pennington's 80m tower at around 1pm and played popular hymn How Great Thou Art.

Inspiration for the musical act came from a video that was filmed in Italy – the country which has lost the most lives from coronavirus.

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Pictures: Phil Taylor

Rev Saunders said: “I was challenged by a member of my congregation who had seen a film of a trumpet player who played the Italian national anthem to his neighbours from his apartment balcony.

"With so much fear and uncertainty I thought it would be good to do something to share a positive message to bring hope and encouragement to people at a time of need.

"The view across the town was amazing and I took the opportunity to pray for everyone.

"Then I puckered my lips and started playing.

"To my surprise I heard a shout and turned around to see three roofers working on top of a house on St Helens Road.

"They were stood on the roof holding their phones and filming. "Then I looked down to spot two of my neighbours in their garden doing the same.

"It was quite tricky in windy conditions but I managed to hold my trumpet and play one-handed while filming with my phone in selfie mode using my other hand.

"I was thinking of taking requests and doing it again on another day, hopefully when it’s less windy!”

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Leigh Journal:

Pictures: Phil Taylor

Rev Saunders has been amazed by the response the video has had on social media since he shared it.

He said: "I posted the video on the church Facebook page and loads of people have commented and shared the film.

"I think there were over 14,000 viewings in the first 24 hours!"

The vicar also live-streamed the Sunday morning service on Facebook as a substitute for residents to watch it, while the church is closed to follow Government guidelines in avoiding gatherings to stop the virus spreading.

Leigh Journal:

Leigh Journal:

Leigh Journal:

Leigh Journal:

Pictures: Phil Taylor

Christ Church’s youth and children’s workers, who are usually busy running sessions in schools and the church, have also taken their work online.

They are busy producing and posting resources and ideas of activities to help children and young people make good use of their time.

To get involved visit the church Facebook page and YouTube feeds to access information and challenges.