A Bridport church group has announced a host of festive services in the lead up to Christmas.

The Chapel in the Garden’s minister, Reverend Elizabeth Harley is returning this year to lead their 13th annual Yule service on Wednesday, December 20.

The Christmas service is a key part of the winter ritual for many people in Bridport.

People of all ages and animals are welcome and there is often a surprise visitor of the four-legged variety.

It will take place at the church on East Street from 5.00pm.

Reverend John Harley is also holding a carol service on December 17 at 11am, which will be followed by a ‘bring and Share’ lunch at midday.

Reverend John Harley, a minister at the Chapel, said: “For many in our community these winter days seem particularly dark - with wars being waged across the globe, the cost-of-living crisis and the ongoing climate emergency.

“At the chapel we have a feast of services and gatherings planned - all are welcome to share the light and hope of this holy season and to come together in companionship and good cheer.

“We believe that religion is not a relic from the past but rather a whole attitude to life - a way of seeing beyond mere materialism and finding the gold and love at the core of our being.”

These services include elements of celebrations from different faiths.

The winter solstice and Yule, the Pagan holiday, are honoured, and, although, the major Jewish holiday Hanukkah finishes on the December 15 Jane Silver Corren will deliver a message of hope during the Yule service.

For anyone that may find December a difficult month, there will also be a quiet service of candle lighting on December 15 at 6pm.

On Sunday December 24 at 4.30 pm, there is also their ‘Carols in the Garden’ with Angelica Kennard, to which lanterns, candles or torches should be brought to add to the Christmas glow.

Finally there is a short Christmas Day service on Monday, December 25 at 11am that is followed by mince pies. Its theme will be ‘Light in the Darkness’ led by Margie and Chris Savory,

For more information, please contact rev.eaharley@gmail.com or call Glenda on the chapel mobile on 07566 751752.