A bishop is attempting to persuade churches to keep their doors open longer - despite fears of crime.

Security worries combined with lack of funds has led many to open only for services.

But the Bishop of Blackburn, Alan Chesters, says churches should always be there for anyone who wants to pray or seek solace inside.

Bishop of Blackburn: change would not require much effort

He called a closed church a "negative parable".

"A large number of churches, because of insurance and so on, are locked these days. We could do something about that without a lot of effort if people got together and decided to man their buildings."

The bishop is setting an example at Blackburn Cathedral. There a volunteer network allows for longer opening hours and safety.

Vandals target churches

One volunteer, John Lock, said some form of security against thieves was necessary if churches were to open longer.

"People do help themselves unfortunately, it's a sign of the age," he said.

Mr Lock said the presence of other people in churches prevented thieves.

"People see somebody when they come in and they think, 'I'm going to be a bit more careful.'"

In rural areas, vandalism can often be another major problem. One Roman Catholic priest, Father Bryan Irving, admits he keeps his doors shut when there are no services out of fear.

"We're just frightened of what might happen if it is left open," he said. "Children explore where perhaps they shouldn't, they don't know how to behave.

"There's also vandals, of course, who set out to descreate deliberately."
 

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