CHURCHES across Bury are being encouraged to hold Brexit tea and prayer drop-in meetings.

Bishops serving the Diocese of Manchester have called for churches to take part in five days of national prayer for unity as the deadline for Brexit approaches.

They have suggested that Christians host informal café-style gatherings over the weekend of March 30-31 to bring people together and facilitate open discussion.

The Bishop of Bolton, Mark Ashcroft, said: "At significant times in the life of the nation, it is really important that the church takes a lead in praying for our nation, in helping communities to stand together as one, and having a particular concern for the most vulnerable in our communities. So I do encourage churches to use the resources that are available."

Backed by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, a number of resources have been launched, including prayers for use in services and special gatherings.

They also include invitations for people to get together and chat over a cup of tea and pray for the future of the country.

The Bishop of Manchester, Dr David Walker, said: "Ahead of the 2016 referendum, the faith leaders of Greater Manchester committed themselves to working for the unity of all our people, in the face of the divisions brought on by the Brexit process. That commitment will be even more important in the days ahead."

Access the church resources at www.churchofengland.org/together.