WORSHIPPERS from churches all over Kidderminster congregated for a day of celebration on the theme, Praise in the Park.

Around 600 people, from a variety of denominations, gathered in Brinton Park to celebrate Pentecost - the gift of the Holy Spirit - also known as Whitsun, on Sunday.

The event followed on from a similar, successful one held last year to tie in with 150th anniversary celebrations for Kidderminster Town Hall.

Praise in the Park was part of the day-long Picnic in the Park, organised by Wyre Forest District Council, with activities for children including tennis, football and face painting.

Tim Morris, one of the organisers of Praise in the Park, said church people in Kidderminster had wanted to build on the success of last year's event.

"It was decided by Churches Together in Kidderminster they felt they would like to have a repeat event on Pentecost Sunday," he explained, adding: "Pentecost is sometimes known as the church's birthday."

The Rev Nick Barker, team rector at St George's CE Church, who led the service in the park, said: "I think people enjoyed the event."

He added: "I think folks appreciated the chance to come together and pray for the life of the town. There was a good crowd there."

Sue Harper, the district council's leisure services manager, was pleased by the turnout.