Bear Grylls is among Christians coming together for the National Week of Prayer (NWOP).

The nine-day initiative which runs until October 18th, involves churches, organisations and prayer networks from all denominations hosting gatherings in 70 locations across the UK.

It’s the third time the initiative has taken place and this year’s theme is ‘Gather. Remember. Return’, based on Zechariah 1:3 "Return to me, and I will return to you."

Organisers say it’s “a call to the whole body of Christ in the UK to humble ourselves, remember God's faithfulness, and return to Him in prayer and worship. From the largest cathedral to the smallest front room, every gathering is part of this national moment” for spiritual awakening.

In a video encouraging people to get involved, Grylls calls for Christians to make prayer a greater priority in their daily lives, saying: “Life is full of adventure. It’s also full of battles, and over the years, I’ve learnt that strength - real strength - often starts when we get down on our knees. During this National Week of Prayer, speak to the One who’s been writing that story all along.”

Introducing the video, Lt Col Simon Maggs MBE who is part of the Defence Christian Network spoke of King George VI calling for a national day of prayer when the British Army was trapped at Dunkirk in danger of being annihilated. Following his call, millions of people across the UK headed to churches to pray.

Information about resources and how to get involved can be found at https://www.nationalweekofprayer.uk/