A NEW initiative to allow residents to meet and chat is launching in Great Sankey.

St James' Church, on Canons Road, Hood Manor, is throwing opens its doors as part of the nationwide Places of Welcome Scheme.

The meeting launches next Thursday, April 27, with residents invited for a free cup of tea and refreshments in the church from 1pm to 3pm on Thursday afternoons.

Pioneer team vicar for St James’ Church, Rev Martin Thorpe said: “I am delighted that St James’ is supporting this initiative to welcome those in our community into our church.

"I am particularly grateful to Warrington Borough Council for awarding us a local area grant fund to support this project.

"I hope that this will prove to be a great blessing to everyone in our community who would value the opportunity to have a regular place to meet and chat and make new friends and maybe even share their gifts and skills with the community."

The event launches on April 27 by deputy mayor Les Morgan in the church hall.

All are welcome to the launch and every Thursday afternoon after that for a free brew and a biscuit and a friendly welcome.