CHURCH leaders across York are preparing for a modern-day "feeding of the 5,000".

Two massive free barbecues will be held in the city centre and Front Street, Acomb, between June 25 and June 28.

The event, organised by Christian organisation, On The Move, is designed to make churches more accessible and give people the opportunity to find out more about Christianity.

Organisers, who will be preparing enough food for nearly 1,000 people each day, hope to attract shoppers and workers on their lunch break.

More than 300 volunteers from 20 churches have been enlisted to serve up beef burgers, "veggie" burgers and sausages. Local co-ordinator Frank Mason said the food would be served between noon and 2pm.

"The church is often seen as quite remote in its own separate building," he told the Evening Press.

"This is about getting out into the community and making ourselves more known.

"It will not be a high-pressure evangelical event but an opportunity to provide friendship and prayer. "Obviously if people are interested in knowing more about Christianity we will be there to follow it up."

Christian musicians will play hymns and worship songs during the feed.

Mr Mason said they were yet to confirm with the council the exact location of the city centre barbecue.

On The Move has held 87 such events across the UK since 1998, feeding a total of 208,000 people.

For more information about the event you can contact Mr Mason by e-mail at frankmason99@hotmail.com or log on to the On The Move website at www.onthemove.org.uk

Updated: 09:56 Saturday, March 15, 2003