A unique "pray and display" parking permit for drivers carrying out religious duties is being launched.

Barnet council says it will provide religious leaders with permits allowing them to park in a resident's bay free of charge when on business.

It says the scheme - believed to be the first of its type in Britain - will help "vulnerable residents in time of spiritual need".

Applicants will need to provide a letter of support from their place of worship and a brief description of the religious duties being carried out.

The council says it will also consider applications from members of a congregationwho are deemed to be on official church business, such as visiting a sick person.

A council spokesman said: "They will still have to be backed by a letter from the church and they are less likely to be granted permits than the church leaders themselves." The council says it will recognise religions including Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Baha'i, Jainism, Judaism, Rastafarianism, Sikhism, Unitarianism and Zoroastrianism.

Applications from other faiths will be considered.

Guidelines for the scheme have been worked out with the Barnet Multi-Faith Forum. A permit will be available for £40 a year with additional ones registered at the same address costing £70.

Council leader Mike Freer said today: "The importance of religion cannot be underestimated and the council has acknowledged this with a policy that will assist spiritual leaders when engaging with people in times of illness or crisis.

"This new permit shows our commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and increasing wider participation for all in religious, cultural and community life."

Andrew Harper, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: "Introducing parking permits for people undertaking religious duties widens the opportunities for the faith communities of the borough.

"Our new community parking permit will enable the most vulnerable to obtain the care, guidance and support they require."

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