A church will not be fined after a popular park was closed to the public for a celebration.

Last week The Argus reported how Stanmer Park in Brighton was shut after hundreds of people attended an event on the lawn outside Stammer House.

After complaints from locals that businesses, visitors and residents were affected, Brighton and Hove City Council said it was looking to pursue formal action against the organisers.

It was initially claimed the event was organised by the St Mary and St Abraam Coptic Church in Davigdor Road, Hove, to celebrate its Easter.

However it has since been confirmed that it was an informal event attended by some members of its congregation.

A statement issued by the local authority said: “Brighton and Hove City Council would like to make it clear that the church did not organise the gathering that took place in Stanmer Park last Bank Holiday Monday and hence they were not responsible for any disruption caused.

“Moreover, the church had made efforts to discourage too many people turning up at one place.

“The council can confirm that that the church will not be facing any fines or legal action.

“In fact we appreciate the help we have received in understanding the reasons behind the gathering and we will continue to discuss with them how a repetition of this year's problems can be avoided.”