CHURCHGOERS are preparing for their annual walk to raise cash for Bexley's centre for the unemployed.

This year has been a difficult one for the BCU Life Skills Centre in Pincott Hall, behind Christ Church in Bexleyheath Broadway.

Lack of funds nearly forced the centre to close last summer until Bexley Council stepped in with emergency funding to help keep it going for another year.

While the centre staff search for new sources of funding, the 13th annual churches' walk will provide it with a lifeline last year the event raised £8,000.

The nine-mile walk sets off from St John's Church, Danson Lane, Welling, at 10am on April 29 and finishes at the centre.

The lunch break will be at the Holy Redeemer Church, Days Lane, Blackfen. Walkers should bring a packed lunch.

There will be a tea break at the United Reformed Church, Hurst Road, Bexley Village.

Hot and cold drinks will be provided en route and walkers can join or leave at any point along the route.

For details, call 020 8303 8089.