A PRE-Christmas concert by the Stanchester Quire was held in Hemyock’s St Mary’s Parish Church.

Under the baton of Eddie Upton the 17-member Quire, which was formed about 30 years ago, gave a concert comprising old Westcountry Christmas carols, poems, and a number of solos.

Stanchester Quire performing a pre-Christmas concert in St Mary's Church, Hemyock.
Stanchester Quire performing a pre-Christmas concert in St Mary's Church, Hemyock. ( )

The afternoon was organised by the Friends of St Mary’s, who provided tea and cakes and raised £268 for church funds.

A display by the village’s Lights Brigade had been lit, ensuring everybody was aware that it was the 10th anniversary of the group and the 400th anniversary of St Mary’s oldest bell, while the star on the tower was ablaze with light.

The Lights Brigade had been all ready to deliver its 10th parade when news of Storm Darragh spread and an amber weather warning meant the event had to be cancelled.

The theme of the parade was to celebrate the anniversary of the oldest bell in the church tower, known as the Enigma Bell, and Daisy the Cow’s tenth outing.

Some of Hemyock Lights Brigade's anniversary display in the churchyard of St Mary's.
Some of Hemyock Lights Brigade's anniversary display in the churchyard of St Mary's. ( )

Although not being able to deliver the parade on December 7, the group was able to display the large lanterns in the churchyard, including a bell being cast, Daisy pulling a huge bell on a cart, and a giant 10th birthday cake.