A NEW coffee morning which has launched at a Broadwaters church has been designated as a 'Place of Welcome' by the national scheme.

The coffee morning runs at St Oswald's Church, in Broadwaters Drive, between 11am and 12.30pm every Friday, with the community group offering tea, coffee, biscuits and a chat - completely free of charge to anyone who would like to drop in.

The coffee morning was set up by Brian and Sue Murkett, but is run jointly with the teams from St Oswald's, Broadwaters' Methodist Church and the Friends of Broadwaters.

Brian, who is a churchwarden at St Oswald's, wanted to provide somewhere for people in the local community to meet regularly.

He said: "We have been open since the beginning of February and usually have around 25 to 30 people coming along.

"It is open to absolutely everyone, a chance to enjoy a cuppa while meeting with others."

The group has now become a 'Place of Welcome' which means that alongside offering free refreshments, the group can also provide a listening ear for anyone who wants to chat and the team are able to signpost to other sources of help if required.

Nigel Taylor, St Oswald's vicar, said: "As a church we really wanted a way to reach out and support those in the local community who might be feeling lonely and isolated.

"We are delighted to have been recognised by the 'Places of Welcome' scheme as somewhere people can come for help and advice."