A young reverend is knocking on hundreds of homes in an effort to boost some of the dwindling congregations in Suffolk.

The Rev Christopher Robinson, rector for several churches in villages outside Stowmarket, says he has managed to speak to hundreds of homeowners in Rattlesden alone.

“I am knocking on pretty much every door in Rattlesden inviting everyone to church for Back to Church Sunday,” he said.

“The vast majority are perfectly happy to see the parson at the door, only very few pretend to be out.

“I have managed to speak to more than 90% of villagers and it’s a great opportunity to say hello to people, let them know the changes we are making, and invite them to come along.”

The initiative is part of this month’s national campaign Back to Church Sunday which first started in 2004.

It is now believed to be the largest event of its type, taking place in churches across denominations worldwide.

Mr Robinson said: “A lot of people feel church is a bit of an exclusive club, but that just isn’t the case. You are always welcome to come along.

“If you haven’t been to church for a while, or just since Christmas, we will be hugely pleased to see you.

“Inviting people to church is a good opportunity to meet people and get to grips with what is still a fairly new area for me having been here less than a year.”

Mr Robinson is also visiting the villages of Hitcham, Brettenham and Thorpe Morieux.

The Back to Church Sunday service is being held tomorrow at 9.45am in St Nicholas Church, Rattlesden.

A new Sunday club for children will be launched on the day.