QUESTIONS of ethics will be on the agenda when Hanley Castle church hosts a series of interviews to mark Lent for the fourth year running.

The interviews, under the heading of Beer and Ethics, feature a number of local people talking about their work, the issues that they encounter and what principles they use to make their decisions.

The series open on Wednesday, March 8, with rugby player and coach Peter Walton who is at present the England Under-18 coach.

On Monday, March 13, High Sheriff for Worcestershire Sir Nicholas Lechmere will talk about the areas of criminal justice he has encountered.

The following Monday, March 20, Sue Adeney, a member of the Church of England's General Synod will give an account of its recent debate on sexuality and marriage.

And on Tuesday, March 28, the controversial theme of housing and development will be broached with Nicky Inchbald of Rooftops Planning Association will talk to Archdeacon of Worcester Robert Jones about the tensions between housing need, local provision, and local barriers.

The short season finishes on Thursday, April 6, when Rt Rev Graham Usher, Bishop of Dudley, will discuss his role as a board member of the Human Tissue and Organ Transplant Authority.

Sue Adeney, one of the organisers, said: "Lent is a time of reflection and challenge and these evening sessions are an opportunity to find out about the serious and responsible jobs people fulfill and the ethical issues they encounter."

The lectures are open to all, and take place in the Lechmere Chapel at St Mary's Church, Hanley Castle at 8pm. Beer is provided by the Three Kings pub next to the church.