CHARD Churches Together held an event at Chard Beacon on the evening of Saturday, December 6, to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

By Molly Kirk Chard & Ilminster News

Early in the evening, a gathering of people assembled at Manor Court School and walked in a procession, led by an angel (played by Tracey-Ann Bruce), up to the Beacon for group carols led by Reverend Nick Jerrett.

Once there, the group enjoyed hot chocolate, sang carols and gazed upon the illuminated Nativity, accompanied by the angel and two shepherds (played by Alan Nichols and Cris Fendt).

he silhouettes for the Nativity were made by Men’s Shed in 2021 as requested and funded by Chard Churches Together.

The annual event held on Saturday, December 5, at the Beacon replaced the Walking Nativity event held back in 2018 and 2019.

This event used to include live donkeys, a brass band, six Roman soldiers and various actors in costume telling the Christmas story around Chard Town centre.

However, due to the pandemic, Chard Churches Together cancelled the arrangements for this event back in 2020 and instead came up with the idea of a Nativity scene in a public place, where it can be viewed from a distance.

The scene will be in place for people to visit and enjoy until the beginning of January 2026.

A spokesperson for Chard Churches Together said: "The event was successful, everyone there enjoyed it, we brought the story of Jesus’s birth to the people of Chard and the rain held off. "

The spokesperson added: "Last year, we had to move the date due to Storm Darragh."

Images : Chard & Ilminster News