|PIC1|Churches throughout the Midlands are preparing for the visit of an unannounced visitor to their pews - the Mystery Worshipper.

Dozens of researchers are set to descend on a secret list of churches on Sunday 13 January - reporting on the comfort of pews, warmth of welcome, length of sermon among other things.

The project will be run by the Christian Research Association and the Heart of England Christian Resources Exhibition.

Also supporting the initiative is www.shipoffools.com, founders of Mystery Worshipper.

"We hope to cover a range of worship services of different traditions and styles, highlighting best practice," said Steve Briars, CRE's Event Director. "The project will help us monitor where there are needs and how the exhibition can meet those needs more effectively."

Mystery Worshipper in the Midlands reports will be published on 21 Feb at a special church ministers' breakfast on the first day of Heart of England CRE.

The Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill, Anglican Bishop of Lichfield, has offered his backing to the initiative, as well as the heart of England CRE, saying: "As we strive to make our churches more accessible to the communities we serve it is vital to equip ourselves with the best resources available and to learn from those who have experience and knowledge of the issues facing today's church."