FOLLOWING the success of last year's event, the Vale of Evesham Christian Centre is staging Connect 2002 over five days in a marquee on the town's Crown Meadow.

The event takes place during the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations shortly after Evesham Carnival on Saturday, June 1.

Connect 2002, a contemporary event for all ages, opens on Wednesday, June 5, with a Youth Nite with a live band from Winchcombe and continues on Thursday, June 6, with singer John Gaughan, who was formerly with Herman's Hermits. Friday and Saturday nights will feature international speaker Eric Delve, of Maidstone, and Connect 2002 concludes with Connect Church in the tent on Sunday morning, June 9.

Each afternoon from Thursday to Saturday there will be "The Event goes to the tent," an exciting programme for children aged five to 12 led by Vision Kids from Winchcombe. From 2pm to 4pm the programme will include games, crafts, lively puppets, music songs, Bible stories and lots of fun.

"For parents and guardians looking for a break during the week, this will be an ideal opportunity for them to relax for a couple of hours while their children are entertained by Vision Kids," said event co-ordinator Martyn Ricketts.

New this year will be the Tiddly Wink tent for children up to five, open to coincide with the children's event in the afternoons, where they can play under parental supervision.

Mr Ricketts explained: "Connect 2002 is about making Christianity relevant to young and old alike and to let people see that there is a message of hope for all."

For further information please contact Martyn Ricketts on 01386 49772 or 07890 216 632 or email martyn@eveshamchristiancentre.co.uk