A Whitehaven church is combining pizza with prayer in a bid to reach more people.

Worshippers can enjoy a slice of pizza, modern music and practical, relevant messages, at a new monthly event organised by St James' Church.

Reverend Robert Jackson, priest-in-charge, decided to set up 'Pizza Church' because he believes attending church should be "enjoyable and engaging".

The sessions, which are held at St James' Community Centre, offer a contemporary twist on the traditional church service, with a more relaxed atmosphere and are aimed at families.

Rev Jackson said: "The number of young people going to church on Sunday is dwindling. They feel it isn't for them.

"There are now so may other things to do on a Sunday and I appreciate that.

"This is our way of doing church differently. We're doing it a bit more informally.

"It might attract someone who thinks I don't want to do church in that established way. It's a different way of engaging with families."

'Pizza Church' is just one of the initiatives started by the vicar to reach out to the wider community.

'Messy Church' sessions are also held in the community centre - a form of church for children and adults that involves creativity, celebration and hospitality.

The sessions explore a biblical theme through crafts, story, prayer, song and games. The group enjoys a sit-down meal at the end.

Rev Jackson said it is a "fresh expression of the church".

And 'Afternoon Tea Church' recently started at St Nicholas' - a service of readings, poetry, hymns, prayer and reflections, with fellowship and afternoon tea.

Rev Jackson said: "Church is the people not the building. We are one church but different congregations."

'Pizza Church' is held every second Sunday of the month, between 4 and 5pm. For a full list of church events, visit: www.whitehavenparish.org.uk.