The Catholic Church has annoucned that public masses have been cancelled across Scotland to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

It is the first time the church has taken such a move and from Thursday there will be no masses until further notice.

Masses will still be said in private in churches but not in front of parishioners and live streaming will be put in place instead, where possible.

Churches will not be completely closed to allow  time for private prayer.

Previously hygiene measures had been put in place around communion and shaking hands but now bishops have gone further to protect congregations.

A spokesman for the Catholic Church said: "In an unprecedented move, Scotland’s Catholic bishops have announced that with effect from Thursday 19th March, no public Masses will be celebrated in Scotland. The bishops announced, that priests would continue to celebrate Holy Mass in private, praying for those suffering from Covid-19 and those who care for them.

"Churches will remain open for personal prayer and parish priests are asked to welcome individuals who seek consolation and encouragement from the Lord and to be available for the reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick and Holy Communion as and when they are needed especially for the sick and housebound. For the celebration of baptisms, funeral Masses and weddings the bishops ask that only close family are invited.
"The bishops advise that Holy Week liturgies may be curtailed but ask Catholics to remain together in spirit and in prayer and to join with all Scotland’s Churches in a National Day of Prayer this Sunday 22nd March, Mothering Sunday, to pray for our country and our world in this time of need."