The organisers of Keswick's annual Christian convention have launched monthly sessions to hear from people in the town.

Following concerns from town traders about the impact the event has on takings, Keswick Ministries held a meeting with businesses and the town council to discuss better ways of working together.

Now the charity, which runs the three-week summer event and small-scale teaching events throughout the year, has set up community drop ins to improve its communication with residents.

There was concern among businesses after it was revealed the advertised dates for the 2018 convention were fully in the school summer holidays.

Traders said they lost up to 90 per cent of their takings during the event, and the holidays were a key trading time for them.

Keswick Ministries has since brought forward its 2018 dates, moving the first week into term time.

Now the charity has lauched monthly sessions on the first Tuesday from 5pm to 6pm and the third Wednesday from 10am to 11am at its Rawnsley site to give residents the chance to meet members of the team and discuss ideas or concerns they have about the convention.

In addition, quarterly town liaison meetings will be held, beginning in November.

The charity is offering businesses physical and online advertising space during the convention, as well as promotion from the event stage.

And it has pledged to cut back on its afternoon programme so people can have more time to enjoy what is on offer in the town.

James Robson, ministry director at the charity, said: "It is my desire that the Convention inspires a real sense of pride in the town, not just for our ministry work with a ride range of people from all backgrounds across the country, but also for the tangible benefits it brings to Keswick - significant local investment and lifelong loyal visitors."

Residents can book time to talk at the monthly sessions by visiting www.keswickministries.org/communitydropin or calling 017687 80075.