NEXT year, Tavistock will be one of the many parishes celebrating the publication of the authorised version of the bible in 1611.

Also known as the King James Bible, next year will mark the 400th anniversary of the translation into English, and Tavistock residents can join in the celebrations with a public reading of the whole New Testament in May next year at St Eustachius' Church.

This version of the bible will be remembered by the older generation from the daily readings aloud from it, which were part of school life.

It includes all the set-pieces of the life of Jesus, such as his birth, the Sermon on the Mount and the events of Holy Week, expressed in poetic language.

Everyone is welcome to attend the reading for as long or short a time as they like.

Volunteers are being sought to join in with this celebration by being part of the team of readers.

Volunteers would need to be free for parts of May 19, 20 and 21 and be able to attend rehearsals.

Anyone who would like to be involved, is asked to contact Judith Davies on 01822 612191 about attending the next planning meeting.