HOME Secretary David Blunkett will take a Kendal audience through his mission to create a just, tolerant and safe society.

Talking at St George's Church tomorrow (Saturday), the top MP and former Methodist lay-preacher is expected to draw a capacity audience.

He will be the guest of his old friend, vicar of St George's Alan Billings.

During the 70s, and into the mid-80s, they served together on Sheffield City Council as leader and deputy leader.

Dr Billings, who runs St George's Centre for Practical Christianity and is director of Lancaster University's Centre for Ethics and Religion, said the two organisations were sponsoring the event.

Keen sailor Mr Blunkett, along with his guide-dog Lucy, are regular visitors to the Lake District.

Dr Billings said he liked "the stillness." The two have been friends for 30 years.

"He went off to Parliament and I went to train for the clergy, but we always kept in touch," he added.

There are no tickets left to watch the Home Secretary in the 120-seat main hall, but people can pay £5 on the door to hear the proceedings via an audio-link in St George's, Gooseholme.