The popular Pateley Bridge Christingle service that has raised money for charity for more than 30 years is returning to the Parish Church of St Cuthbert after a two-year break.

Organiser Joyce Liggin told the Stray Ferret:

“We couldn’t hold our usual Christmas Eve service in 2020 or 2021 because of covid restrictions, but we are back once more on Saturday at 6pm and we hope that as many people as possible attend to help raise more money for The Children’s Society.”

She added:

“The service at St Cuthbert’s, which also includes the blessing of the crib, has been held on Christmas Eve for more than 30 years and is viewed by many local people as the perfect start to the festive season.

“As in previous years, a collection will be taken and all proceeds will go to the society which believes  that every young person deserves a good childhood.”

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Since 1968, Christingle services have been held across the UK to raise money for the charity, which helps vulnerable young people.

The Christingle tradition, like the bringing of an evergreen tree into a house, has its roots in Germany and dates back to the 18th century, when it was introduced by Moravian Bishop Johannes de Watteville.