A bishop is set to bless a tractor and plough in a bid to support the farming community across Royston.

The Bishop of Ely will attend the inaugural Plough Sunday service which is due to be held at All Saints Church, Melbourn, this Sunday, January 14.

Rev Andrew Birks, who took over as vicar of Melbourn and Meldreth in November, is keen to underpin the importance of the farming role in society.

Rev Birks said: “I’m from a farming background - I worked on a farm with my brother as a teenager.

“I’ve always had friends and family members in farming and that has enabled me to understand the challenges farmers face and recognise how important they are in feeding the nation.

“Farmers are a big part of the community and I want us to celebrate that.”

Rev Birks intends to also support farmers' mental health, the tackling of rural crime, and the National Farmers’ Union and its work.

He added: “Farming can be a very lonely and isolating existence.

“I want farmers to know they are not alone and we are there for them.”

The vicar will also look to hold other events celebrating the local farming industry throughout the year.

All Saints' Plough Sunday service will start at 3pm.