TODAY marks the start of a ground-breaking Christian event at Winsford Lifestyle Centre.

The churches of mid-Cheshire have joined forces to stage the Passion for Life event, which will see four inspirational speakers recount their moving tales of murder, political protest, terrorism and loss.

Former Zimbabwe cricketer, Henry Olonga – who was forced to flee the country after famously wearing a black arm band in protest to Robert Mugabe – will speak today, Wednesday.

Former Chief Constable of the Isle of Man, Robin Oake, will talk on Thursday about the murder of his police officer son in an anti-terrorism raid; Fiona Castle will talk about the death of her husband Roy on Thursday, and former terrorist David Hamilton will bring things to a close on Saturday. All talks start at 7.30pm.

On Saturday and Sunday there will be something for the kids. Colin Buchanan, Australia’s number one children’s entertainer, will put on a show on Saturday at 1.30pm, and Jump Start – a special event for teenagers – will take place on Sunday at 7.30pm.

The churches involved are Bethell Evangelical, Christ Church Greenbank, Christ Church Wharton, Emmanuel Evangelical, St Michael's Middlewich, St John's Hartford, St Stephen's Moulton and St Wilfrid's Davenham.

Tickets for all events can be booked by calling 01606 77277.