SHOPPERS’ prayers were heard as the Bishop of Bolton visited the town on Ash Wednesday.

The Rt Rev Chris Edmondson was in Victoria Square inviting people to share their prayer requests, which he took to a service yesterday afternoon.

Bishop Edmondson was carrying a box for requests, under the banner “Pray one for me”.

It is the fourth consecutive year he has visited Bolton town centre on Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, to give people the chance to share their prayers.

Bishop Edmondson said: “It’s been very humbling listening to what people have said to us.

“We’ve had prayers from someone who is being made homeless, someone with mental health problems, people with family bereavements.

“It’s amazing what people will say when you can get them to talk about it.”

Christine Emily Threlfall, a stipendiary minister with the West Bolton Ministry team, added: “We have had a very warm response.

"It’s such a privilege to be here and share these people’s journeys.

“As a church, we want to show people love and support. We are committed to serving the community.”

People can post prayers at prayoneforme.org or at facebook.com/prayoneforme