A WINSFORD church began the festive season in style by holding its annual Christmas fair.

United Reformed Church, in Over, held the event on Saturday, November 14.

The fair was opened by the Reverend Philip Kennerley who in his opening remarks referred to the late actor Colin Welland who had officiated at a similar event at a previous pastorate of Mr Kennerly’s.

There was a wide variety of goods available at the fair which included, Christmas cards, jewellery, home-made cakes, chutneys, jams and marmalade.

For the first time the Beavers and Scouts contributed to the fair with a toy stall and face painting.

The Rainbows and Brownies once again ran the popular children’s tombola and sold candles which they had decorated.

Visitors were also able to make an offer for vouchers donated by local businesses. Before leaving many visited the refreshment area where they were able to buy a wide range of home-made produce.

The elders and members of the church would like to thank the community for its continued support and generosity. In all, the fair raised more than £2,300.

On Sunday, November 29, Steve Howe will give a short presentation on the work of Christians Against Poverty in Winsford. Simone Burrows will lead a Nativity and Gift Service on Sunday, December 13, helped by the Rainbows, Brownies, Beavers and Cubs.

A service of lessons and carols will be led by the Reverend David Spence on Sunday, December 20.

These three services all begin at 10.30 am.

At 7.30pm on Christmas Eve, Ruth Hatton will lead a short carol service. On Christmas morning at 10am, Mr Kennerley will lead a celebration of the birth of Jesus.