CHURCHES in the Pendleside villages of Higham, Fence and Wheatley Lane are once again holding a joint Alpha Course.

The Alpha course, featured recently on television and widely advertised across the UK, is a ten-week introduction to the basics of the Christian faith.

It involves a free meal, presentation and small group discussion. This year the Methodist Church, Wheatley Lane Road, is hosting the joint venture in the Methodist School and church.

Minister and course leader the Rev Gareth Higgs said: "Alpha is a great way to start the New Year by exploring questions of life and faith.

"Thousands of people across the UK have found the Alpha course stimulating and challenging while remaining non-threatening. It is a great way also to meet new people in your locality."

The Alpha Course has been run jointly between the Pendleside churches for some years and rotates on an annual basis between venues.

The course begins on Tuesday January 8 at 7pm and runs until March 18.

For more information, contact Gareth on 01282 694439.