A BOURNEMOUTH parish welcomed over 5,000 visitors into its churches over the Christmas period.
The parish of Winton, Moordown and Charminster returned to a full Christmas programme for the first time since 2019, starting with its first Christmas market at St John’s Church, Moordown, on November 19, raising £2,500.
On December 3, St Luke’s Church, Winton, hosted the parish’s second Christmas market, with stalls from local businesses including PearHaus coffee, Sue’s Toys and Cocoa & Co.
Local choirs entertained visitors, with food provided by Webster’s Family Butchers and Bennetts Bakers.
The parish hosted its 10th annual Christmas tree festival in St Luke’s Church, Winton, every day from December 1 until Christmas Day. Trees were sponsored and decorated by local businesses, organisations and people.
The parish put on a full range of Christmas services for the first time since 2019. Highlights included local school Christmas services and the Christmas Eve crib services, which featured three alpacas from Hope Farm Alpaca Rescue.
Rector of the parish, the Reverend Michael Smith, said it was great to return to a full programme of Christmas events.
“To see churches full of people, not just for the services but for the markets and the tree festival was a real delight and joy,” he said.
“It’s what we’re here for; to serve the community and to ensure that our buildings are used for the benefit of all.”
For more information, visit: https://www.parishofwmc.com/
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