FRIARS are to hold days of reflection for stressed executives in the latest effort to gain funds to repair fast-decaying buildings. Clergy at Aylesford Priory, near Maidstone, have teamed up with a business regeneration firm to launch away days where business people will be shown stress-relief techniques to boost positive thought.

Foster-Brown Associates, of Bridgewater Place, Leybourne, holds days of meditation for companies wanting to raise staff performance and reduce sick-leave caused by stress-related illnesses. Aylesford's stress-busting days, expected to start next month, will also include presentations by the friars on how spirituality can provide calm in the midst of crisis.

Prior of Aylesford Fr Wilfrid McGreal said stress-relief days were open to businesses which gave donations, called priory bonds, in aid of the restoration appeal. It 15 months since the official start to raise more than £1 million to restore a 14th century gatehouse and 17th century thatched barn.

People at Wednesday's launch heard that in return for priory bonds of at least £250, firms will receive discounts on using the complex for functions such as conferences. David Thomas, proprietor of Media, a business in Queens Road, Maidstone, and Malcolm Cade, general manager of Network Europe Group, a communications company, both said they were keen supporters of the priory and wanted to help the appeal.

Fr McGreal said: "We Carmelite friars have a tradition of spirituality and wisdom which we think is important. We hope these stress-busting days will give people the tools and resources to manage change and not be managed by it."

For information on restoration appeal, ring 01622 717272. For details of stress-busting days, contact Fr McGreal at friars@hotmail.com