More than £5,000 is being spent providing a prayer room in a police station for all major faiths.

Sussex Police believe Brighton station, the first with such a facility for police and civilian staff in Sussex, is leading the way and most major employers will follow suit in years to come.

They are expecting some criticism but Inspector Bill Whitehead, leading the project, said: "Firstly, the money is not coming out of any operational budget.

"This is money which we applied for and received from the Home Office diversity unit.

"Secondly, although most people at the station are Christian we are working hard to attract employees from all ethnic and religious backgrounds to properly reflect the community we serve.

"We hope the All Faith Room will break down barriers and encourage people from all faiths and backgrounds to work here."

The room, on the top floor of the station in John Street, will be situated where a canteen once stood. It is believed to be one of only a few such rooms in police stations in England and Wales.

It will provide prayer books and religious items for Christians, Buddhists, Muslims, Jews, Hindus and Sikhs but any other religion will be considered.

Mr Whitehead said: "It will be a room where members of staff can practise religious observances, to pray or worship and have some quiet contemplation after a hard day's work.

"All substantial stations in Sussex, ultimately, will have them."

Drawers for religious items including prayer mats and crucifixes will be provided for each faith and there will be different coloured carpets and a shoe-free area.

There will also be washing facilities for feet and hands.

Police are running a competition among local schools to provide pictures for the room.

There are four entry categories: Pupils from infant schools or younger groups, junior schools, secondary schools and students in further education.

Police are trying to get local companies and shops to donate prizes and winners will attend the All Faith Room opening ceremony.

The competition deadline is December 3. Contact Mr Whitehead on 01273 665659.