LAST Sunday morning the church of St Mary's, Madresfield ,was full for the joint parish Advent service. The service was taken by the Archdeacon of Worcester, the Venerable Dr Joy Tetley, who lit the first candle in the Advent wreath. The lesson from the Epistles was read by Helen Sommerville, and children of the Junior Church led the prayers and also sang The Bells of Creation. During the service the newly restored six bells were blessed and re-dedicated by the Archdeacon. Coffee and hot mince pies were served after the service.

Since July the bells have been restored at the John Taylor Bell foundry in Loughborough, which has cost £25,000. Fundraising, grant aid and donations have ensured the six bells are ready to be re-hung in time for ringing on Christmas Day. New bell-ringers will be needed. Call Mick Levick on (01684) 561594 if you can help!

Tomorrow (Saturday) there is a Christmas bazaar being held at Guarlford Village Hall from 2pm-3.30pm with all the usual stalls with a Christmas theme. All proceeds towards the parish churches and village hall repairs.

On Sunday (December 4) a Christingle service will be held at St Mary's Church at Madresfield at 11am.