PEOPLE looking for relief from the woes of the world have someone to turn to in an unlikely place a supermarket.

Staff and shoppers at Asda in Graham Road, Bexleyheath, can benefit from a spot of spirituality and understanding as they pick up their shopping.

A listening ear is being provided by reverends Dick Johnson and Francis Jakeman, both of Christ Church, The Broadway, Bexleyheath, and associate chaplain Cy West.

The men are three of Asda's 160 chaplains nationwide and are part of the country's largest single workplace chaplaincy.

Mr Johnson, who is also the town centre chaplain for Bexleyheath, pioneered the scheme at the store almost eight years ago.

An average three-hour shift may see him visit the store offices, have a cup of tea with staff and find out if there are any issues among them.

Mr Johnson, 46, will usually then head to the shop floor where he is available to speak to staff or customers.

He said: "Essentially we are there to be approached, not the other way around.

"We talk about anything from football to marriage, just everyday conversations which build relationships.

"We are not forcing anyone into anything. It is a misunderstanding to see this as a religious exercise."

Mr Johnson, who has just began a three-month sabbatical, added: "We are not there to make people into Christians and fill churches. This is an outdated concept of the Christian mission."

Mr West, 82, joined Mr Johnson as an associate chaplain at the store six years ago.

Although not ordained, Mr West has 12 years' experience as a Samaritan and has discussed work, bereavement and relationships with staff and visitors.

The grandfather-of-two said: "We are not preaching. We do a great deal of listening and we don't interfere."

Mr West, of Foxhollow Drive, Bexleyheath, added: "Many people don't think about God but sometimes something happens in their lives and they start to think about the world. We are there to listen."

l Where would you like to see chaplains working? Write to News Shopper, Mega House, Crest View Drive, Petts Wood, BR5 1BT or email newsroom@ london.newsquest.co.uk