TWO church ministers were sentenced to public humiliation in the stocks -- but it was all in a good cause.

A family fun day at the newly-merged St Andrews and Memorial Road Methodist Church in Walkden saw Keith Bamford and Enid Knowles endure a bombardment of wet sponges to raise money for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

And the local community and congregation made sure they got a real soaking.

Before he headed for the stocks, the Rev Bamford said: "Enid and I were chosen to go in the stocks as we are the ministers of the churches.

"I have brought a change of clothes with me because I know I'm going to be soaked."

And to keep the football fans happy, the event also included the World Cup match between England and Denmark on a large screen.

Mr Bamford added: "There are a quite a few people looking forward to the game -- I'm hoping to catch a bit of it at some point myself!"

"Anyone can have a go, but I'm sure there will be a few parishioners waiting in line to throw a wet sponges at me."

And even though the day was a little overcast, the fun was not to be spoiled as supporters enjoyed the attractions and stalls.

Inside, the church was decorated with traditional red, white and blue, and the children enjoyed face painting and novelty games, while the adults wandered round the dozens of stalls selling home made goods.

Friends of the churches flocked to St Andrew's in Manchester Road East to enjoy the entertainment of a brass band, and church members served lunches and delicious strawberry teas during the all-day event.

He added: "The day will hopefully raise a lot of money for a good cause and also be a fun get-together, helping the new church family get to know each other and also invite others to join in this celebration."