SALISBURY Cathedral is gearing up for the busiest and most significant season in the Christian calendar, with a series of services, talks and events throughout Lent, Holy Week and Easter.

Lent begins on Wednesday, February 18 with Ash Wednesday services featuring music from the Cathedral Chamber Choir and a sermon from The Rt Revd Stephen Lake, Bishop of Salisbury.

Crosses will be marked on foreheads with ash as a symbol of repentance and turning to God.

This year, probationer choristers helped prepare the ash, made by burning last year’s Palm Crosses.

Communion services at 7.50am and 12noon will also include the imposition of ashes.

The popular Lent Talks course returns each Monday evening under the theme ‘What is Truth?’, exploring Christian perspectives on truth in an age of fake news, internet algorithms and rapid technological change.

Speakers include Anna McNamee, Ross Meikle, Revd Canon Dr Tim Bull, Revd Canon Professor James Woodward and Canon Chancellor Kenneth Padley.

Each session concludes with discussion and Compline, sung by choirs including the Farrant Singers, Sarum Voices and the Cathedral Chamber Choir.

On Fridays during Lent, visitors can enjoy homemade soup and sandwiches at the Canon Precentor’s home in the Close, with proceeds supporting medical projects in South Sudan, continuing more than 50 years of diocesan fellowship and prayer.

The Easter Garden returns on Friday, March 20 outside the Cloisters Visitor Entrance.

Designed by award-winning horticulturalist Andy McIndoe, the Mediterranean planting illustrates the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, remaining in place until Pentecost on May 24.

Families can take part in Easter-themed crafts, storytelling, and reflective trails on Saturday, March 28, continuing until April 19, with activities including making card crosses, wool sheep and exploring the cathedral grounds.

For full details on services and events, visit salisburycathedral.org.uk