A CHURCH is leading the way in throwing open doors long locked to the public.

Thanks to the congregation, Lowton St Mary's is now once again welcoming daily visitors seeking solace.

Pairs of volunteers have been on duty at the Newton Road church between 9am and noon ever weekday and Saturday since October and the scheme has been a great success.

Vicar of two years, the Rev Bill Stalker, said: "Due to vandalism and theft many churches were gradually closed to the public except for services, but as part of our programme for growth to involve the community more we decided to try to reopen the church daily.

"We have two volunteers a session to cover the church and already people have started to come back. I believe we are the only church taking this action locally.

"Sometimes people have a need to be in a quiet place to pray or just to think. At St Mary's we have actively sought to meet this need. Members of our church family have decided to give up their time so the church can be available and we offer an open invitation to everyone in the community. With all the hustle and bustle in the run up to Christmas they will be able to find an oasis of quiet and calm in the church."