A LONG-TERM fear of going under water didn't stop an 86-year-old woman from being baptised on Sunday.

Gentle encouragement from Sharon Phelps, of Cinderford, who also wanted to be baptised helped Sylvia Hale, of Steam Mills, overcome her phobia.

The pair took it in turns to immerse themselves into a large pool as Rev Tony Mathews, who had travelled up from Bristol, led the service.

A packed congregation at Steam Mills Bethal Baptist Chapel watched as the pair took part in a special event, 'River Wash over Me', which involved the pair climbing into the pool before they could enjoy music and a spread of food.

Member of the chapel, Pat Symonds said: "Sylvia has always said she wanted to be baptised but didn't want to go under the water, and it just so happened Sharon – who recently joined the chapel – expressed her interest in baptism and she helped encourage Sylvia to join her.

"The chapel wanted to give them a special day and so put on food and music. It was such a lovely day and it was so funny when Sylvia got out of the pool and shrieked 'I'm soaked!' Lillian Hopkins and Rev Ivor Waddelow did a wonderful job organising the event.

"Rev Tony Mathews also entertained the congregation with a 'chat' as opposed to a sermon."