WORSHIPPERS joined a unique open-air service to mark the birth of the Darwen Ecumenical Partnership.

Hundreds of parishioners from nine different churches were at the service on the new Moss Bridge, which will carry the motorway across the A666 at Darwen.

The Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev Alan Chesters, was also at the event which was followed by a picnic. The congregation also said prayers in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales.

The organisers of the partnership, which include Methodists, United Reformed and Church of England parishes, are hoping more churches will join up in the near future.

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