Didcot churches are among 7,000 across the country stepping up promotion of Alpha courses in a bid to reverse falling attendances at church.

On September 13, the Rev Mark Wickenden, of Didcot Baptist Church, and other Alpha co-ordinators in the area, will host a supper at Didcot Civic Hall for anyone to join the ten-week courses which are intended as an introduction to Christianity.

Churches are also launching a major national advertising campaign with a range of eye-catching Alpha poster designs.

The courses at Didcot Baptist Church have resulted in new members and increased church attendances. In the UK only 7.5 per cent of the population now regularly attends church.

The civic hall supper, which starts at 7.30pm, is free, although anyone wanting to attend should book through Mr Wickenden by telephoning 01235 510540.