There was a large congregation, including members of youth organisations, in Holsworthy Parish Church on Sunday evening for the annual service of lessons and carols.

The service, which was led by the Rector, Rev Michael Reynolds, Rev John Henry of the Methodist Church and Deacon Neil Quirk of the Catholic Church, opened with the children of the Sunday Club singing the first verse of the traditional carol 'Once In Royal David's City'.

The readings and lessons were read by representatives of organisations and churches in the parish. The augmented choir, conducted by Jill Cornish, sang three carols, and the children of the Sunday Club sang 'Jingle Bells'.

The Holsworthy Town Band, conductor Derek Kidby, accompanied some of the congregational carols and played two musical interludes. The organist was Denzil Blackman.

The collection will be shared between the Holsworthy Town Band, protection for the stained glass windows and the maintenance of the external church floodlighting. After the service the congregation were invited to stay for coffee and mince pies.