AN INNOVATIVE Salvation Army corps officer has conjured up an idea for a new Songs of Praise-style event in Basingstoke.

Major Ron Smith, who moved to the borough in June, was responsible for the first event at The Green in Wessex Close, King's Furlong, Basingstoke, last month, which was attended by about 60 people.

A number of people were interviewed before the Songs of Praise and chose what songs they would like to sing. At the end of the event, a general request session was held.

In addition, Major Smith, a member of The Magic Circle, used a repertoire of tricks to entertain the children and adults who attended, as well as providing a visual aid to put the Salvation Army message across.

The inaugural event, on September 28, was held outside The Salvation Army Hall, but wintertime sessions will be held inside. Gatherings are to be held every two months and all are invited.

Major Smith moved to the area with his wife Elaine to take up posts with the charity.

He said: "Having got settled in, we felt it would be good to do something for the people in the immediate locality.

"People enjoy Songs of Praise and, with the nice weather, we thought we would take advantage by holding the event outside. It went very well - people came just for the Songs of Praise, not just Salvation Army people. It is different - which is what people want nowadays I think."