IT has been a fantastic Holy Week at Drybrook, Lydbrook and Ruardean churches with a busy schedule of activities and services, says the Rev Nick Bromfield.

Holy Week began with a Palm Sunday procession at Drybrook, with the support of Sundance the donkey, ent by The Wonky Donkey Inn at Bailey Lane End, and a family service.

On Wednesday there was an Easter activities morning at the Forest Church Schoolroom attended by around 50 children and parents who produced stunning artwork, miniature Easter gardens and collages of real footprints representing the footsteps of Jesus.

Wednesday evening at Ruardean included a special Agape meal at the Pludds village hall with a joint meal and celebration of holy communion together, re-creating the Last Supper.

On Good Friday, around 30 people took part in the traditional Walk with the Cross with local Christians from Lydbrook Church to Drybrook, arriving in good time for the Final Hour service where we remember Jesus' last moments on the cross.

There were also moving Tenebrae services where the churches gradually darken as lights and candles are put out and thoughts turn to the crucifixion.

Easter Day began at Drybrook with an Easter breakfast and Easter egg hunt in the church grounds for the children and there was a record Easter morning congregation of 145 people at the main morning Communion service and excellent turnouts at Ruardean and Lydbrook.

"There's a pause to rest now before preparations for the benefice confirmation service with the Bishop of Tewkesbury on Sunday June 12 at Lydbrook Church, as that church also looks ahead to celebrating its 160th birthday in early August," said Rev Bromfield.