BRIGHT colourful lights will soon be seen on the streets of Worcester.

Ronkswood will be lit up again this year as giant lanterns parade through the streets.

Following last year’s successful event, the Ronkswood Community Centre in Canterbury Road and St Matthew’s Church have teamed up again with Ian Craigan of Puppet Tree Community Arts to brighten the winter gloom.

The Rev Fran Binding of the Holy Trinity and St Matthew’s Church in Ronkswood, and one of the organisers of the event, said they were looking forward to the festivities.

She added: ‘‘Advent is a time of hope, so our theme this year is Heaven On Planet Earth. We’re delighted that so many community groups are taking part and making their own lanterns.” Joining the church and centre are the East Worcester Deanery Youth Group, Perry Wood Primary School, the Salvation Army, The Punchbowl and Medway Youth Centre.

Community worker Mal Parry said: “We’re running workshops every Saturday in the church from 10am to 2pm leading up to the big pageant on Saturday, December 13, which starts at 6pm from the Ronkswood Centre. Everyone is welcome to come along and help. And don’t forget to dress up for the pageant – bring a torch and join in the fun.”

The procession will also include the Salvation Army Band and a special Samba Sounds percussion group. Funding for the event has come from the Elmley Foundation and Worcestershire County Council.

Anyone wanting to take part or find out more should contact the centre on 01905 359578.

For information about Puppet Tree, visit puppettree.co.uk