A CHURCH project aimed at "putting the heart back" into Kidderminster amid ongoing town centre development will be launched next month.

Twenty town churches are backing a scheme to develop Baxter Church in the Bull Ring, with a glass frontage and a community coffee, book and advice shop in the offing.

The first fund-raising event for the scheme, which Baxter minister Rev Gerald England estimates could cost up to £250,000, will be a concert on Saturday, December 15 featuring town group The Valentines.

The project was first mooted following a public meeting of worshippers from all 20 churches at the beginning of the year in response to a perceived lack of recreational and cultural facilities included in the Weavers Wharf town centre development.

Father Douglas Lamb, of St Ambrose Church, said in May there was "disappointment at the lack of imagination and vision being shown".

Now words are being put into action, to "bring churches together and provide a service for Kidderminster". Grants will also be sought.

Mr England said: "We would like to be part of the development - to give the town a heart. We decided Baxter would be the ideal place for such an ecumenical centre because of its proximity to the town centre.

"We had a public meeting and the enthusiasm and commitment was more than sufficient for us to feel sure we could go on.

"There has been no negative feedback and we have pulled together people who have expertise. Wyre Forest District Council's planning department has been very encouraging," he added.

Canon Owain Bell, of St Mary's Church, said this type of collaboration between churches was "quite remarkable".

More details about next month's concert at Baxter Church are available by calling 01562 751185.