'Love Stortford' is the message from town's churches during week of action

Churches across Bishop's Stortford will be love-bombing the town next week in the run-up to the carnival.

Worshippers will be spreading kindness and happiness from Monday to Saturday (June 10-15).

More than 350 people are involved in the plan to take the love of God to the community. This will be expressed in different projects during the week such as litter-picking, running a Thursday market stall giving away free tea and coffee, carrying out a big DIY project to refurbish Market Square and many more random acts.

Love Stortford co-ordinator John Barfoot, boss of CZ Design & Print and a former Herts county councillor for the town, is a committed Christian.

He said: "As Christians, we know what it is to be loved by God. Love Stortford Week is our way of sharing that love with our community in tangible ways.

"I've been really amazed at how many churches in town have joined in with this project – it seems to have caught everyone's imagination."

Throughout the week, equipment will be provided for individuals and family to litter-pick, while those with specialist skills will be helping to jet-wash the paving in Market Square, levelling planters and installing new ones, and cleaning and painting all the street furniture.

The whole event has been financed by the town's churches, and volunteers will be wearing Love Stortford T-shirts.

Mr Barfoot said: "It is hoped that it will be the start of something that will become well established in growing love and service for the community."

To join the volunteers throughout the week, email lovestortford@gmail, call 01279 461231 or see www.facebook.com/LoveBishopsStortford and thecommunitychurch.org.uk/events/