Here is what the heart seen above Colchester on Easter Sunday meant

The symbol, created by a signwriting plane, was the idea of the C3 Church which has just taken over an historic ex-military building in Colchester.

Formerly known as the Garrison gym, the building dates back to 1860 and was passed to Colchester Council from the Ministry of Defence 11 years ago to be preserved for the benefit of residents.

The C3 Church, which already has churches in Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds, hosted its first physical service at the premises on Good Friday.

Nigel and Mandy Drew will be the pastors of the new Colchester church.

Many residents spotted the symbol in the sky and wondered who was behind it.

Symbol - the cloud spotted in Rowhedge 

Lisa Titmus said: "It’s the first time I’ve seen it.

"It looked so beautiful in the clear blue sky on Easter Day."

Hamid Ahmed filmed the cloud from his home in Stanway.

He said: "It made us smile, my little boys, my wife and I, we all loved it.

"My wife is battling cancer at the moment and she needed anything to lift her spirits up, so even it was little thing, seeing her smile and happy meant a lot to me.

"So thanks to that brilliant and talented pilot."

Clear day - the symbol could be seen for miles

A spokesman for the church said: "The C3 Church brought a cross and a heart to the sky over Colchester on Easter Sunday, created by a signwriting plane.

"Unfortunately by the time this picture was taken the heart had distorted in the wind but is still recognisable.

"The church, which is based in Cambridge, also has a presence in Bury St Edmunds and is taking over the Garrison Gym in Colchester shortly."