Lynton, Lynmouth and Exmoor Advertiser, January 2020

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JANUARY 2020 37
Christ Church, Parracombe
Christmas Tree Festival A Christmas Tree Festival was
held in Christ Church, Parracombe over three days during the
second weekend of December. Trees were sponsored and
decorated, some by individuals and families, but also by some
local businesses and groups. There were also produce stalls
from local suppliers selling Christmas gifts and handmade
cards, honey and plants. Combined proceeds from sponsorship
of the trees and donations from the stalls raised a total of just over £670. Although the
weather probably reduced the numbers visiting, for those there it was an enjoyable weekend.
Nine Lessons and Carols Christ Church welcomed a very large congregation who had
defied the weather to attend the annual service of Nine
Lessons and Carols. Late comers had difficulty finding a seat
and for some it was standing room only. Singing was
supported by the Christmas Choir who opened the service in
the traditional way with the first verse of Once in Royal
David's City and later sang three solo pieces including a lively
version of Mary's Boy Child - think Boney M! - Thank you to all
members of the choir and their director/conductor Bish Muir for their support and many hours
rehearsal. Many of the readings were given by pupils of West Exmoor Federation, thank you to
the children and their headteacher, Jane Peacock. Refreshments were served by members of
the PCC and friends, for which thanks. Service was conducted by Rev Samantha and the
organist was Roger Martin. Proceeds from the collection were shared with Clarity North Devon,
a charity supporting young people with mental health problems, and Children's Hospice South
West.
Christ Church welcomed the Exmoor Carolers for an
evening of music and song. At the start of the evening we were
told that John Wesley would encourage his congregations to
"sing lustily" and we should do the same. Indeed, there was
enthusiastic encouragement of audience participation by their
leader and musical director, Rupert Kirby. Each item was
introduced by one of the Carolers who explained the origin of
the carol and how the Carolers came to add it to their programme. At the end of the evening,
Reverend Samantha thanked the group and said that such events were an important part of
the Christmas programme and the fund raising helped with maintenance costs of small village
churches. Proceeds from the sale of cd’s and the raffle were donated to the Carolers' chosen
charities, this year Over and Above Hospital Charity, See Hear Centre and
@www.ageconcernbarnstaple.org.uk. The evening proceeds of the raffle were £142. Thank
you to the Carolers, all those who attended and supported, and members of the PCC for
organising the refreshments.
Mervyn Mugford
advertise@lyntonadvertiser.com 01598 752788