Last updated at 12:41, Sunday, 09 December 2012

Usually when people finish work on ‘black-eyed Friday’ they head straight to the pub.

Tom Mahon with the Reverend Andrew Longshaw

But one businessman thinks they might want to hold off for an hour and go to church before sampling their first pint on the final Friday before Christmas.

Thomas Mahon, who runs bespoke tailors English Cut in Brampton, is organising a special service for traders.

He thinks it could help them deal with what has been a bad year – and make new contacts and connections.

“I go to church, it is part of my life,” said Mr Mahon, who is a Roman Catholic. “But people are surprised when I say I go to church, they don’t expect it.”

He thinks there is a negative perception about people who attend services and would like to see this changed.

“I go to give thanks but I also always get something from it. It helps you get some perspective.”

The service will be held on the last Friday before Christmas, when businesses traditionally close early. Mr Mahon originally suggested the idea to his staff, who were enthusiastic about it, and has now decided to throw the idea out the wider community in Brampton.

“That way people will see what you get by going to church,” he said.

The event will also provide the chance for the business people to meet and discuss ideas.

Mr Mahon has suggested that after the service – which will feature a Christmas sermon and music – they visit a pub.

The service will be in Brampton Methodist Church, on Main Street, with a time yet to be confirmed.

Rev Andrew Longshaw, the superintendent minister, said: “I think it is a superb idea.”

He added that the service would be fairly short, lasting about 45 minutes.

“It is strange because we were already thinking about doing something like this,” he added.

Details of the service will be posted on the church noticeboard.

Mr Mahon is also making a contribution to a cause being supported by many people in Brampton.

He has donated the prize of a bespoke suit, worth about £3,000, to be raffled at the Big Wig Ball, organised by local salon owner Janice Grieves.

Mrs Grieves said: “I’m very pleased he has donated a suit – we were looking for some more high-end prizes. We had plenty of things for the ladies but not much for men.”

The Ball, to be held at The Hallmark, Carlisle on 2nd March 2013 is in aid of CLIC Sargent to fund projects for local children with cancer.

First published at 14:11, Friday, 07 December 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk