Church in Oulton illuminated for Dickensian carol service

And even the strong winds from Storm Pia that blew across the churchyard could not stop a successful Dickensian carol service in a North Suffolk village.

St Michaels Church in Oulton is illuminated for a special Dickensian Carol Service. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

A sizeable congregation gathered in the grounds of St Michael's Church in Oulton, Lowestoft for the classic service.

Colin Boor, Parishioner, Carolyn Woodcock, Authorised Pastoral Assistant and Rev Andy Bunter, Team Vicar as St Michaels Church in Oulton holds a special Dickensian Carol Service. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

With the church brightly lit by colourful floodlighting - courtesy of the students of Sir John Leman High School - the service was led by team vicar Andy Bunter, who looked resplendent in a Victorian style top hat.

The singing to the Meadow Gardenians Brass Band was interspersed with dialogue from Charles Dickens' character, Colin Boor, while the congregation were offered free warming refreshments.

Meadow Gardenians Band perform as St Michaels Church in Oulton holds a special Dickensian Carol Service. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

The arrival of Santa brought proceedings to a close.

Rev Bunter said: "When some asked last year, can we try and capture the warm fireside, family oriented Christmas of the Dickensian era, we said, 'Why not'.

"We added a few extra lights but really enjoyed revisiting a theology of family, community and belonging; big reasons Jesus came to us in the first place.

"The wind encouraged us to keep it short, but, there was a full measure of community, hospitality and welcoming Christian Gospel."