CHRISTIANS in Surrey are joining forces to call for a new deal on climate change as world leaders from more than 190 nations prepare to meet in Paris for crucial climate talks.

The Church of England, Christian Aid, CAFOD and Tearfund have come together to organise a Pilgrimage2Paris, starting in London on November 13 and staying in Surrey churches en route to Paris where they will arrive on November 27 ahead of the talks.

Inspired by their faith, the group of Surrey Christians will join others from across the UK to call on world leaders to agree a fair, ambitious and binding climate change deal to limit greenhouse gas emissions from 2020 when current commitments run out.

Farnham vicar Rev Lesley Crawley, who is helping to organise the local church’s response to the climate talks, said: “We have two great opportunities to pray for all involved in these crucial climate talks.

“On the evening of the November 13, the pilgrims will be in our diocese, sleeping in the churches in Banstead before heading off for Crawley the following morning. Everyone is welcome to join them.

“You can simply cheer the pilgrims on or walk with them some of the way – there will be stopping off points for coffee, lunch and tea.

“In addition, we are having a prayer vigil on November 28 at Guildford Cathedral from 4 to 5pm. This will be led by Bishop Andrew and will involve prayer stations throughout the cathedral. We will be joining our prayers with the prayers of thousands of others, of many faiths and across many nations.”

Anyone wishing to join the pilgrimage (for the Banstead to Crawley leg or more) can do so by signing up on the website www.pilgrimage2paris.org.uk

To find out more know and to liaise about timings contact Lesley Crawley on 01252 820537 or revdles