PEOPLE gathered at St Matthew’s Church this evening to pray for the release of hostage Alan Henning.

The church is supporting Mr Henning’s family and prayers for his safe return are said to be helping the family during their time of “uncertainty and anxiety”.

Bishop of Bolton Rt Rev Chris Edmondson attended the silent vigil at the church in Little Lever, for people to offer their prayers for the aid worker and his family.

Candles were lit — symbolising the light against the darkness —while images of Mr Henning delivering aid to Syria, and people of different religions gathering for peace were shown.

Bishop Edmondson, who also covers Salford, said: “The church and the local clergy are giving support to the family.

“I know how much Alan’s wife and two children appreciate the support and prayers of the community in Bolton and Salford helping them through this time of fear, anxiety and uncertainty.”

He added:”There is a strong Christian belief, and in other faiths, in coming together in pray in the face of difficulties.”

More than 20 people attended the vigil, including representatives from Bolton Council of Mosques, all united in prayer for Mr Henning.

And every 15 minutes the people would join together in prayer led by Canon Ian Anthony, who prayed for peace, Mr Henning and other hostages, before the Bishop brought the vigil to a close with a blessing.

He said: “It was very moving, people came together in shared silence in concern for Alan and his family.

Claire Axon, aged 39, from Little Lever, said: “It was very emotional and powerful.

“It is so important the community come together in something like this. My heart goes out to his family , and pray that he is released and back with his family.”

Former councillor Sean Hornby added: “I am not sure if this message, my plea and the plea of others will get through to the captors the members of the Islamic State to please, please please release Alan Henning a good man who’s only purpose was to help others.”