BLACKPOOL'S first gay Christian support centre has opened its doors in a bid to make the Church "more accessible" for all members of the faith.

The Gay Christian Advice Centre is now up-and-running at the Body Positive offices, South King Street in the resort, every Friday from 3.30 to 4.30pm.

Led by the Reverend George Fisher, of St Thomas's Church, Caunce Street, the centre aims to provide spiritual and emotional support to all members of the Fylde lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community.

Centre spokesman, Alan Ward said: "The idea for the centre was first put forward during the last World AIDS Day event.

"Many people were saying how they would really benefit from having somewhere to go to ask about spiritual matters without having to turn up at church on a Sunday.

"It's very difficult for many gay men and women to practice their religion in a traditional church environment.

"Even in this so-called 'enlightened age' there are still many members of the Christian faith who share bigoted opinions of same-sex couples and relationships.

"This kind of attitude is ironic really because the Church itself has recognised the existence of and accepted members of the gay community for many years.

"The official view is that everybody has the right to worship but - on a day-to-day level - it can be extremely intimidating trying to sit through a sermon knowing you'll never truly be invited into the folds of the congregation.

"With the gay Christian Advice Centre you will be able to seek out advice, information and Christian companionship in confidence and without any added pressures."

Alan - who has himself been ordained by the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) - added: "Eventually we hope to be able to start running regular get-togethers and a weekly Christian service.

"Maybe not on a Sunday because a lot of the Fylde gay community work in the entertainment or hospitality industry, but perhaps on a mutually convenient weekday evening.

"The idea is to make the Church accessible for all members of the Christian faith."

For further information about how to attend or get involved in the Gay Christian Advice Centre contact Rev George Fisher on 01253 392544 or Alan on 01253 628500.