A Clayton-le-Moors church is opening its doors this winter to help those who are struggling to afford heating bills.

All Saints’ Church in Clayton-le-Moors is welcoming people in the community who need a safe and friendly place to seek out support and advice over a hot drink or even hot meal.

The Warm Hub will be open every Friday from 11.30am to 1.30pm from Friday, November 18, at the church, in Church Street.

Reverend Toby Webber said: "We're responding to the cost of living crisis and people's fears about being able to heat their homes, especially as the weather gets colder. We felt by opening up we can help people, give them a friendly welcome and a warm space.

"This will be going out throughout the winter. And this isn't just for people who can't afford their heating. A lot of people might just appreciate the friendship and the company.

"People can contribute by coming along and being part of that friendly welcome for people."

The church will be providing a warm lunch, offering soup, sandwiches, tea or coffee and more.

Hyndburn Borough Council has introduced ‘Warm Welcomes’ across the borough and this is the third type of Warm Hub that has opened in Clayton-le-Moors.

Clayton Community Centre hosts a ‘Warm Welcomes’ bank from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday to Friday and Clayton-le-Moors Baptist Church hosts one from 10am to 4pm on Monday to Wednesday and 10am to 2pm on Thursday and Friday.

Warm Hubs are warm, safe places where residents can expect a friendly and inclusive welcome that have been cropping up around East Lancashire as the cost of living crisis has exacerbated over the last few months.

Residents can come along on their own, or with a friend, and talk to others to get practical tips and advice on saving energy costs and keeping safe and warm at home as well.