CHURCHGOERS can 'tuck in' to a new style monthly Sunday service, starting this week, May 20, at St Paul's Church Hall, Yelverton.

Called [email protected], the event — starting at 9.30am, of course! — will see the congregation enjoying a breakfast before the service starts.

The Rev Preb Nick Shutt, Rector of West Dartmoor Benefice, said: 'We know that for many people Sunday is a very important family day and to make a commitment to come to something in church is "a big ask" when there is so much else that has to be crammed in. But we believe there are real benefits for everyone to start the day with breakfast together — bacon butties and sausages with tea and filter coffee will be served at the start of the service— to share a short time of worship and reflection in a less formal setting than a usual church service.

'We want everyone — young and old — to enjoy some food together, both Christian food and butties food!'

The café-style service has been put together by congregations from across the West Dartmoor Benefice parishes that have come together to combine their talents in a bid to welcome those who may find the prospect of darkening the door of a church for the first time rather daunting.

'We hope it will be fun. Christ came that we might have life in all its fullness – and that includes having a good time when you come to church. We've got badges for everyone who comes and a fun "loyalty card" to earn points for repeat attendance – but it's not about the packaging, it's about some good news for everyone – and that makes a change in the current economic climate.'