THE Bishop of Gloucester attended a special Easter sunset 'service of light' at St Peter's Church in Newnham as the Severn Bore rushed past.

On Saturday evening Bishop Michael Perham accompanied Newnham's vicar, the Rev Juliet Stephenson at a fireside gathering, with the congregation listening to scripture, singing and renewing baptism vows.

"It's one of the most important services of the Christian year, coming together to celebrate Jesus the Light of the World, and renewing the vows made at your baptism. Everyone who came felt very moved by the atmosphere of the outside service," said Rev Stephenson.

The service began in the churchyard at 8pm. The Bishop had just finished reflecting on the importance of the gift of water when the Severn bore was heard rushing alongside the church.

Everyone who gathered had a special candle lit from the Easter candle, and the many children had glow sticks, adding to the atmosphere.

As well as people from the parish churches of Newnham, Awre and Blakeney, many visitors also joined in: around 170 adults and more than 30 children.

"I've had so many wonderful messages on Facebook, that we simply have to repeat this next year," said Rev Stephenson.

"This proves to me that there is a desire for spiritual gatherings – the Church of England just needs to re-think the ways to do this, so as to capture the hearts of those in its community.

"I think our village is good at doing this, and I'm very grateful to all those who came and supported this special event."