CHRISTIANS from across the North of England are set to descend on East Lancashire from today for a series of major faith events.

The Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev Julian Henderson, will be joined by Archbishop of York, The Most Rev and Rt Hon Dr John Sentamu, to take part in four days of mission and outreach work across the Diocese of Blackburn.

The Crossroads Mission is being staged for a second time after first being held in Sheffield last year.

Bowley Scout Camp in Great Harwood will hold an event entitled ‘Light at the Crossroads’ from today and will involve up to 1,000 young people and feature live music, a bonfire and fireworks.

There will also be a school’s celebration event involving thousands of youngsters at Ewood Park in Blackburn on Friday from 10am.

It’s the first time 25 bishops have worked together in this way in the North West in the long history of the Church of England.

Rev Chris Krawiec, of St Bartholomew’s Church in Great Harwood, who has organised the Scout camp event, said: “It’s going to be a fantastic night with music from band twelve24, a bonfire and fireworks and an exciting lantern night parade from the camp back into town.

“Light at the Crossroads is about young people having a chance to encounter a real faith which lights up lives.”

The Ewood Park Stadium event has been organised by St James’ Parish Church, Lower Darwen.

Vicar of St James’ Rev Tim Horobin, said: “There will be singing, dancing, puppet theatre and much more.

“We have an opportunity to reach the young people.”