THE bishop of Colchester is holding a commemorative service...next to the town's police station.

The Right Reverend Roger Morris will be remembering the Patron Saint of Colchester, St Helena, during a Christian service of commemoration.

Instead of the service being held in a church, the bishop is breaking tradition by hosting the commemoration in Maldon Road.

The service will be held this Saturday 9am next to the police station.

According to legend, St Helena was born in Colchester and founded the church, St Helen's Chapel, the remains of which can be seen.

Bishop Roger said: "Helena was an important figure in the history of early Christianity. On St Helena's Day we will be remembering Helena and all the Christians who have handed the living faith of Jesus Christ down to us today.

“It is very appropriate that Helena, the mother of a Roman Emperor who converted to Christianity, should be associated with Colchester, Britain's oldest town.

“Just as St Helena devoted herself to searching for the True Cross, so we should look for and celebrate examples of selfless love in our own communities.

"An excellent example of selfless love in action is Beacon House, the local homelessness charity, which will be serving breakfast after the service.”

Legend claims Helena was a daughter of the King of Britain, Cole of Colchester, who allied with Constantius to avoid more war between the Britons and Rome.

At least 25 holy wells currently exist in the UK dedicated to a Saint Helen. She is also the patron saint of Abingdon and Colchester.

St Helen's Chapel in Colchester was believed to have been founded by Helena herself, and since the 15th century, the town's coat of arms has shown a representation of the True Cross and three crowned nails in her honour.

Colchester Town Hall has a Victorian statue of the saint on top of its 50-metre-high tower.

Helena is remembered as the Christian mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, whose decision to cease persecuting Christians encouraged the spread of Christianity in the Roman Empire.

After the service breakfast will be served at the new home of Beacon House in Crouch Street, Colchester.

Beacon House is a charity that provides practical support to people who are homeless or living in temporary or insecure housing.

Everyone is invited to attend this unique event.