The National Churches Trust has launched a special scheme so that people have more ways to enjoy their local church, for example through food festivals or book

'50 Things to do in a Church' is encouraging Christians and non-Christians to make the most of their churches and spend more time in them.

Michael Palin (pictured below) is a writer and performer and Vice-President of the National Churches Trust, he said he enjoys the peace and calm that he finds in church.

He recalled a busy day where he wanted to briefly escape: "I desperately wanted somewhere to sit quietly and get myself together, and yet there was nowhere where the price of a seat didn't involve eating, drinking or some commercial transaction.

"I discovered this church, the Church of St Dunstan-in-the West.

"I was never so grateful for a place of repose, an oasis of peace and quiet, in the midst of mayhem."

He went on: "There are of course many other ways that people use and experience churches, including discovering some of the architecture and history that make them such interesting places to visit."

Speaking about '50 Things to do in a Church' Michael Palin said the buildings themselves are fantastic.

He Palin said: "Churches are important and fascinating buildings, churches, chapels and meeting houses are a tremendous asset to communities throughout the UK."

Eddie Tulasiewicz from the National Churches Trust that churches can be used for lots of things.

He said: "There's obviously finding the spiritual side of things, lighting a candle, meeting a vicar, saying a prayer, singing a hymn... but you can go to the opera in a church, you can watch a film in a church, there's all the community stuff you can do, volunteer in a night shelter, you can vote in a church."

'50 Things to do in a Church' with Michael Palin from National Churches Trust on Vimeo.

 Listen to Michael Palin speak about his favourite church experiences here:

Listen to Premier's Hannah Tooley speak to Eddie Tulasiewicz here: