THE call has gone out to the faithful and those of good voice – help Lydney celebrate Christmas by coming to the annual St Mary's carol service or even join up for the choir.

The service, to be held on Sunday December 18 this year, is a great event in the town and new voices could make it even better.

"We would like to expand the choir and open it up to all who love to sing in Lydney, whatever age, and to create a really joyous and full sound together," says a spokesman.

"It would be terrific if it could be a choir representative of all Lydney. Surely there are people of any age out there who do, can or would like to sing, and can spare an hour or two a week usually on Wednesday evenings for 4-5 weeks during November and December?

"We will be singing a varied programme of carols and always have an interesting and fun time rehearsing them. Most practices will be in the warm chapel in St. Mary's and will start at 7.30 pm.

"At the carol service itself we will be joined by the Lydney Training Band, for some of the congregational carols. They are a very enthusiastic band of musicians, who make good music.

Anyone interested should talk to Alan Elgar (organist) on 01452 762017 or 07882 283804.

Other Christmas services in Lydney parish:

First Christmas Tree Festival: Weekend December 9-11.

Crib services for all the family: Christmas Eve, 3pm St Mary's, 4pm Holy Trinity.

Candlelit Midnight Service: Christmas Eve, 11 pm, St Mary's.

Christmas Day: 10am, Holy Trinity.