WITH the festive season fast approaching, work is stepping up at St Mary Magdalene Church, Launceston to get ready for the annual Festival of Cribs and Christmas Trees.

The festival opens Friday evening, December 5, to coincide with late night shopping in the town, and runs until Sunday December 14.

The church will be open from 10am to 4.30pm each day, for viewing, around the regular worship services.

Admission is free, although donations to St Mary's Ceiling Fund will be most welcome.

The Rev Jane Everitt, who came to the Parish in March of this year, said she is really excited and cannot wait to see all of the trees and cribs that are being submitted by groups from around Launceston.

She said: "I have heard so much about the festival, but cannot quite imagine what it will be like.

"I am looking forward to joining everyone this Friday evening or during the next two weeks that the festival is open."

A Christingle service is planned in the church, surrounded by the Christmas Trees, on Sunday afternoon on December 7 at 4pm.

Mrs Everitt said everyone is welcome and has extended an invitation to everyone to attend.