Christians Against Poverty celebrates 15 years of debt counselling

Christians Against Poverty is celebrating 15 years of helping people on the brink to break through their debt problems.

An anniversary bash will be taking place this Saturday at Kings Gate Community Church in Peterborough, followed by another celebration on July 2 at Huddersfield Christian Fellowship Church.

The organisation has seen rapid growth in its short 15 years in operation and now operates in 160 church-based centres across the UK.

Taking to the stage during the celebrations will be just a handful of the 49,000 people helped out of debt by CAP over the years.

They will be sharing stories of how their lives were transformed after approaching the charity for help.

Messages of support have come in from wellwishers, including Prince Charles.

Founder and international director John Kirkby said: "We warmly invite anyone who wants to celebrate what God has done in these past 15 years at CAP.

"It promises to be a fantastic party as we mark this important milestone in the growth and progress of the charity and our gratitude to our partner churches as we tackle UK poverty together."

Kirkby is currently training to run 15 marathons in 15 days in November. The first five will be in the UK, followed by five in Australia and five more in New Zealand with a fundraising dinner at the end of each one.

Supporters, past clients and employees are also running a selection of marathons and fun runs through the year to support the charity.