AN author is hoping to challenge the "wimp" image of Christian men in his new book.

Baz Gascoyne is returning to his home town of Darlington to launch Cut to the Chase, which he penned with Billingham-born Lee Jackson.

The pair, who are concerned at the dwindling numbers of male churchgoers, hope the book will challenge the stereotypes.

Cut to the Chase calls on men in the Church to use their masculinity in a positive manner and bring passion to their Church involvement, lives and relationships.

Mr Gascoyne, 45, who is based in Sheffield where he co-leads the Eccles Church, is a Darlington Football Club fan and retains strong links with the area.

He said: "It is great to launch the book in Darlington. I am looking forward to seeing this book published and challenging the stereotypes about Christian men."

He added: "We wanted to write a book that didn't pull any punches, wasn't too polite - like we were speaking to our mates in the pub. We hope it will make a few people think."

Mr Jackson, 36, lives in Leeds where he is the director of Leeds Faith in Schools, a schools and youth work charity. He is also a hip-hop DJ.

The men will be signing copies of their book at Ottakar's bookstore in the Cornmill shopping centre, next Thursday, at 7pm.

For more information about books written by Gascoyne and Jackson, visit their website at www.leeandbaz.com