The Christmas fair at St Mary’s Church with Culm Davy Chapel, Hemyock, raised more than £1,207 for the church alone thanks to the generosity of those who attended.

This was a particularly good result as many local families were involved in preparing for the evening Light Brigade parade and events were held in the two other villages in the Upper Culm Mission Community.

The event at the Parish Hall started with the Rector Revd Canon Becky Totterdell reading an hilarious notice from Elf and Safety. It spoke of a risk assessment for those riding in a one-horse open sleigh, CCTV cameras monitoring flocks of sheep for shepherds in a centrally heated hut and that appropriate equipment had to be worn on account of harmful rays and the overwhelming effect of Glory.

Equal opportunities legislation prohibited any comments about the redness of Mr R Reindeer’s nose and Social Services had been advised that an infant had been found tucked up in a manger without a crib for a bed and they would be arriving shortly.

It was noted that God broke every H and S rule in the universe as the baby was born to homeless parents in war-torn Palestine laying it open to all the diseases of the time. It was noted how we celebrate as he came out of sheer love so we may know God. Then, to warm applause, the event was declared open.

The hall was filled with traditional stalls, many decorated in festive colours and items, and refreshments were greatly enjoyed. The most popular stalls proved to be cakes and savouries, water and wine, new and nearly new, and the raffle. The children had pocket money toys and a lucky dip. Ron White provided music throughout the afternoon on accordion.