CHILDREN played a central role in the Nativity and Carol Service at St Matthew's Church at Coldridge on Sunday, December 22.

The narrator for the service at St Matthew's Church, Coldridge
The narrator for the service at St Matthew's Church, Coldridge (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Children from the village performed a Living Nativity, the roles including Mary, Joseph, Shepherds, Kings and a star.

The Sunshine Singers
The Sunshine Singers (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

A young person acted as narrator and adults read the readings.

Josh and the Festive Ukeleles played and led the singing for 'Feliz Navidad'
Josh and the Festive Ukeleles played and led the singing for 'Feliz Navidad' (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The Sunshine Singers sang "Little Drummer Boy" and Josh and the Festive Ukeleles played and led the singing for "Feliz Navidad".

The star shining bright on the rood screen at St Matthew's Church
The star shining bright on the rood screen at St Matthew's Church (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The church was full for the service and it was beautifully decorated and candles lit each of the windows.

The lit Christmas tree beside the altar at Coldridge Parish Church
The lit Christmas tree beside the altar at Coldridge Parish Church (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

There was some spectacular festive lighting effects and a sound system was installed.

St Matthew's Church and the Parish Council Christmas Tree on the Green
St Matthew's Church and the Parish Council Christmas Tree on the Green (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

After the service, mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive food was served as part of the wonderful community event.

The parish church has been lit outside for the past few weeks thanks to local sponsorship which pays for the electricity.

The church looks like a festive beacon from its hilltop vantage point.