Steven Betts, Archdeacon of Norfolk, was speaking on a visit to St John's Church in Harleston, the day after the blaze broke out and brought the town centre to a standstill.

"It's hugely sad," he said.

"This church has stood here for years and years as a sign of God's presence in the community.

"We would expect to whatever work is necessary to get it back into use and into the heart of the community."

The damage caused by the fire in the Victorian building - which serves as the town's main church - is still being assessed.

Locals believe the blaze started in the kitchen area of the church although fire investigators say they are still trying to establish the cause.

They........

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