HUNDREDS of people are expected to attend Darlington's largest ever outdoor church service next week.

At least 250 seats will be laid out - but organisers hope plenty of people will be left standing.

The service will be held in the revamped South Park, near the bandstand, at 3pm, on Sunday, June 3.

As well as hymns, Praise In The Park will feature children's songs, puppets, and talks. The service is expected to last 45 minutes.

The event is being organised by churches in Darlington and is open to all denominations and people who do not go to church.

The Reverend Sheilagh Williamson, of St Columba's Church, Clifton Avenue, came up the idea.

She said: "I thought, 'we could use the park - we could do something there'.

"The regeneration there has been wonderful.

"We want local people to come and praise, worship and sing, and hopefully enjoy themselves.

"The park is full of young families, especially at the weekend, and the hymns and songs will hopefully appeal to young people."

Songs planned include To God Be The Glory and Shine Jesus Shine.

The service will be led by Rev Phil Clarke, Minister of Elm Ridge Methodist Church, and Rev Paul Neville, of St Laurence's Church, Middleton St George, and St Andrew's Church, Sadberge.

A guitar band from the King's Church, Whessoe Road, Darlington, will perform, and members of St Andrew's Church, Haughton, will do a reading.

Mr Williamson said: "There has been a very positive response.

"I hope everyone enjoys it - that's why we're doing it.

"It's about coming to worship God in a beautiful setting."

Mr Williamson thanked Rev Clarke, Christine Blakesley, from St Herbert's Church, Yarm Road, and Park East ward councillors.