IT’S not what people would call a traditional church gathering, but a parish is coming together to enjoy a mixture of beer and hymns.

Swanmore vicar the Rev Claire Towns was inspired to host the event after discovering a beer tent at a Christian arts festival filled with people holding a pint of ale in one hand and hymn sheets in the other.

She said: “We really want to be at the heart of the community. I get a lot of people saying ‘I really don’t ‘do’ church, but I like singing hymns’ so this is a great chance for people to come and have some fun and socialise – and the singing doesn’t have to be in tune.

“We’re also keen to support local organisations so all the beer barrels will be coming from a nearby brewery.”

The event will be on Saturday, October 11, from 7pm till 10pm in the Paterson Centre and will also be a chance for people to make use of the church’s new cafe, Barnaby’s, which opens to residents at 10am that day.

Daily Echo:

Tickets for the Beer and Hymns event cost £7.50 for adults and £5 for children, which includes a hot meal and the first drink. More beer, wine and soft drinks with be available for a donation.

To book tickets, call 01489 808968.