THE Archbishop of Canterbury was in Chelmsford at the weekend as part of his tour of the diocese to celebrate its centenary.

Justin Welby took part in activities across the county during his three-day visit and was at his busiest as he made his way through the city.

His visit was hot-on-the-heels of the Queen, who attended a service at the cathedral earlier this month.

On Friday, the Archbishop attended a service during the day where he blessed and gave out the Chelmsford Holding Cross – recycled pews made into palm-sized crosses that act as a visible reminder of faith.

In the evening, he was back at the cathedral to attend a reception with 15 leaders from areas including politics, education and health.

He addressed them on the need to create partnerships with local organisations to work for the benefit of the community.

Mr Welby visited other parts of the diocese including Southend, Bradwell and Stratford on his visit, before attending a boot sale in Boreham.

There, he helped serve out nearly 250 teas and coffee with members from other congregations before a final visit to the cathedral to plant a tree to mark his visit.