Faith

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt RevGraham James, is the guest speaker at the Songs of Praise event at Thursford on Sunday, 28 September, 2008.

The Wells, Fakenham and Holt Methodist circuit is teaming up with BBC Radio Norfolk to present the event, which will feature favourite hymns both old and new.

The Fakenham Town Band and a special circuit choir will lead the singing. Danny Wakefield, the choir's conductor, will also play the Mighty Wurlitzer organ of the Thursford Collection.

The event was started many years ago by Thursford founder, the late George Cushing, who invited the local Methodists to hold the autumn service.

In recent years, Methodist minister and broadcaster Rosemary Wakelin has taken on the organisation and involved BBC Radio Norfolk.

Tony Mallion, from the station, will once again host the event which will include a chat with Thursford's "Mr.Christmas", John Cushing, who has maintained the tradition of holding the event after his father passed away.

Last year it featured the actor Mark Topping to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Methodism's founder, John Welsey.

"This time we want to get back to the familiar format with lots of hymns for everyone to enjoy," said organiser Rosemary Wakelin.

These will include 'Lord for the Years', written by the former Bishop of Thetford, Timothy Dudley Smith and 'And Can it Be?' - which is the choice of Bishop Graham.

"It's always a great evening," said host Tony Mallion.

"I love being involved with it. There's nothing quite like 1200 or more people singing their hearts out, accompanied by both a band and theatre organ. I'm looking forward to it," he added.

Admission is by ticket only but they are free.

They can be obtained personally or by post from BBC Radio Norfolk at the Forum, Millenium Plain, Norwich NR2 1BH. (Please send a stamped addressed envelope and state clearly how many tickets you require).

The café will be open at Thursford before the event starts at 6.30pm.

People are asked to be seated by 6.15pm ready for a prompt start.