BISHOP of Blackburn Julian Henderson has spoken candidly of his experiences with death as part of his Easter message.

The Right Rev Julian Henderson lost his mother at the end of February.

He said: "While it is always the case people die, it seems as though I am more aware of its intrusive presence at this time.

"Whether that is through horrific acts of knife crime in our cities, the devasting loss of life through the plane crash in Ethiopia or Hurricane Idai or the crush of bodies at a football stadium 30 years ago, back in the news at the recent trial, or an unexpected and unwelcome illness taking the life of a young person, or the conflict in Yemen producing traumatic pictures of lives struggling to stay alive; however it happens death is never far away."

But Bishop Julian says the lessons of the Resurrection offer "a powerful message of hope", when this.

He added: "That is why faith matters, why Easter matters and why as I wish you a happy Easter, I do so in the hope you will find your way to a service over the Easter weekend, and discover something of the peace and joy that comes from knowing and worshipping and serving the risen Jesus Christ."