The recent Christmas tree festival and cribs  at St Mary’s Church drew  many hundreds of people to see the church, turn into a  Christmas wonderland, with  about 80 trees, done by  various organisations and businesses of the town.

Organisers Sue Tierney and Sharron Wormald  were delighted with the response.  Stewards and refreshment providers came  from many of the town’s organisations.  Carols were played on the organ by various organists

For the first of the late night shopping evenings, the event was officially opened by the Mayor (Coun L G Penhale) who was accompanied by his wife, Gillian and by the Deputy Mayor (Coun Helen Bailey).  He was introduced by the Town Crier and church member, Rob Tremain.

That evening, it was estimated  that  hundreds of families  visited the  church, with  queues wishing to gain entry forming up into High Street.  All this gave the church a wonderful atmosphere and the church choir sang  Christmas carols and anthems,  with the organist being Robin Stubbs, which all added  to delight of the evening.  Mulled wine  and mince pies were also served.

Through the week, the church was open each day and remained  open   until 7pm the second Friday of the town’s late night shopping.

A glass jar attracted many donations to aid church funds.  

On the  Sunday morning, the second Sunday in Advent, following the lighting of the Advent Candle, the christening of three children took place, the celebrant being Rev Mary Williamson.  They were: Clayton-Zephaniah Matthew, aged 4, Cali-Clowence Loveday, aged 3 and Cherith-Aowen Rose, aged 1. 

 Godparents were all members of the church choir, who during the service sang the anthem ‘The Record of John,’  by Orlando  Gibbons.  The soloist was Sharron Wormald.  The service included a Eucharist celebrated by Rev Williamson.  Lessons were read by Alice Horn and the Gospel by Rev Jess Lancaster  The crucifer was Rob Tremain.

In the afternoon, a Christingle service took place conducted by Rev Jess Lancaster, with her son Edward playing the organ. Children  from St Joseph’s and St Catherine’s Schools took part and despite a  very cold afternoon, the service was well attended.  A collection was taken to aid the work of the Children’s Society.

The church now prepares itself the Coming of Christ, with  a service of Carols and lessons on Christmas Eve at 6.30pm and at ll.30pm  with a Sung Eucharist, to which everyone is welcome.  On Christmas Morning there will be a family service at 10.30am.  The Priest and people of St Mary’s wish everyone a Blessed and Peaceful Christmas.