YEAR 6 children from Ben Rhydding Primary School took part in a light workshop at St John's Church, Ben Rhydding. This formed part of their Christmas preparations and also part of their RE syllabus.

They learned about light as a Christian symbol, the meaning of the Advent wreath, the origin of the Christingle and the significance of its orange, its ribbon, four cocktail sticks, sweets, fruit and candle.

As part of the afternoon, in rotating activity groups, pupils made their own Christingles. At the close of the afternoon, these were lit, as the children stood in a quiet circle at the back of church. Lights were then dimmed and class, teachers and helpers sang, Away in a Manger.

“We've done this now for several years,” said class teacher Mrs Glenda Cumberland. “The children really enjoy it and the time of calm and candlelit singing at the close always adds a very special atmosphere.”

Christingle services will be held at St John's, Ben Rhydding on Christmas Eve at 4pm and 6pm to which all are welcome.