PRESTON churches have joined forces to take the true message of Christmas to the town - on the backs of buses.

The unique festive advertising campaign features bright yellow and red posters bearing simply the word 'Christmas' followed by the copyright sign. Local churches of all denominations have contributed to total £1,000 cost, just to make people think. Churches nationwide are encouraged to come up with campaigns at this time of year. It was Paul Blackett of Preston's Central Methodist Church on Lune Street who decided to use buses.

He said: "So many people walk past our Church laden with presents. We wanted to remind people there would be no Christmas without the birth of Jesus."

Tracey-Jane Harding, of Parish Prospect Preston, said: "The message is aimed at Christians, Muslims, Atheists, everybody. Most people are swept along with it all, even if they don't officially celebrate Christmas.

"Buses go all round town and are accessible to passengers and other motorists. It's thought-provoking but very simple."

The campaign kicked off on Monday (December 1) and runs for a month, featuring four posters on the outside of buses and 20 small ones inside. A similar one could be used at Easter time, and the idea may be taken up nationally if it proves successful.

Churches are also trying out different service times to make them more accessible to shoppers.

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