A CHURCH service at Hexham Abbey this weekend will have a different feel to it.

For up to 100 members of the ancient order, the Knights Templar, will be present as the Abbey hosts the first service of its kind on Saturday at 11am.

The order was believed to be founded in 1119, and was set up as a charitable organisation linked with Christianity.

While many are unaware of the order, members of the Provincial Priory of Northumberland are inviting the public to come along to the church service.

Kevin Stannard, the head of the county’s priory, said: “We have a annual general meeting and part of that is a church service which will be held in Hexham Abbey for the first time.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be at the Abbey and it’s a real honour because it’s a wonderful venue.

“We welcome people to come along and find out more about what we do.”