CHURCHES are throwing open their doors to lapsed Christians this weekend, as part of Church of England nationwide campaign to woo the faithful back to the pews.

Back to Church Sunday aims to encourage people to get back into the churchgoing habit amid falling attendances across the CofE.

Parishes across west London will be making a special effort this weekend to welcome newcomers, or people who are returning to church, with accessible services and food and drink afterwards.

Father Martin Eastwood of St Andrew's Church in St Andrew's Road, West Kensington, is hosting a special 'user-friendly' service followed by pizza and wine for the congregation.

"It'll be a simple and straightforward service and sermon to appeal to everyone, particularly those who may not have been to church for some time," he said.

Since his arrival three years ago, Mr Eastwood has added about 50 people to the regular congregation through a series of activities and outreach works.

"We have about 120 to 130 regulars now, thanks to the open door policy we have here. We also have a children's creche during the service and host all kinds of events to make sure we're serving as many people from this community - of all ages and back grounds - as possible."

The CofE has launched its first ever radio advertisement to promote Back to Church Sunday and has urged regulars to ask their friends and neighbours to drop in this Sunday.

It hopes 500,000 more people will file into the pews as a result of the nationwide campaign.

Clergymen across the country have been leading the charge. This week the Bishop of Reading, the Right Reverend Stephen Cottrell said the CofE must dispel its "Marks and Spencer" image adding "we know that Jesus would just as likely be in the queue at Asda or Aldi".

Father Mark Osborne, of St John's Church, North End Road, Fulham, which has seen its congregation double in recent years, says his flock have been enthusiastic about the day.

"We're expecting a good turn out. But we are doing pretty well most Sundays anyway," he added.

"It's important to be pro-active about telling people we are here, especially in an area where there's a large transient population which for whatever reasons may have stopped going to church.

"We welcome everyone and I think that's reflected in the diversity of people you can see in the pews on a Sunday."