ST MARY’S Church in Bramshott provided the festive backdrop for the annual candlelit Carols for Christmas service last Sunday.

A 24-strong choir performed a selection of traditional Christmas carols to a full church, under the guidance of choir master Tony Halsey.

The amateur choir, made up of of 10 men and 14 women, rehearsed for just five hours before delivering a polished performance.

Star of the evening was undoubtedly 12-year-old Daphne Inglis-Jones, who performed a haunting solo, singing the opening verse of the Christmas classic Silent Night unaccompanied.

Some of the carols were arranged by Louis Halsey, brother of Reverend Halsey, and readings, telling the story of Christmas, were given by lay minister Alan Geddes, and members of the congregation, including eight-year-old Rebecca.

Reverend Valentine Inglis-Jones concentrated in his address on the refugee crisis in Lebanon and the work and shelter provided by one couple working under dangerous and risky circumstances. He reminded everyone that Jesus was also a refugee.

The Christmas Christingle and Carol Service will be held at the Church Centre on Christmas Eve, starting at 6pm, followed by Midnight Mass at St Mary’s Church in Bramshott, starting at 11pm, where Canon Andrew White – the Vicar of Baghdad – is expected to conduct part of the service.