WORSHIPPERS at Bath Abbey have been warned to arrive early for its three main Christmas services or risk being left outside in the cold.

An Abbey spokesman said that the events of September 11 in the USA have caused an increase in visitors, a trend which could place even greater demand on the Advent Carol Service, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols and the Christmas Eve Midnight Communion.

Under current health and safety laws the Abbey can allow only 1,153 people into the building. It will have to close its doors once the pews are full.

Abbey administrator Alan Morely said: "What we say to the members of the congregation is that if they are going to come to these services then please come early.

"We are only allowed a certain amount of people in the Abbey under fire regulations and insurance cover.

Once we get to full numbers we will have to turn people away."

Mr Morely said that although the services prove popular every year, the events of September 11 and the ensuing conflict has affected church attendances.

He said: "We don't count people through the door but there is a general feeling amongst people in the Abbey that, yes, it feels a little bit fuller.

"We also feel that the number of people coming into the Abbey and just sitting quietly has increased."

This Christmas's services at Bath Abbey are: Advent Carol Service, December 2 at 6.30pm, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, December 24 at 7pm and the Christmas Eve Midnight Communion which takes place at 11. 15pm.

Anyone who wishes to attend are advised to turn up an hour before the services begin.