AN annual carol service which has become a highlight of the festive community calendar is to be held next week.

The Evening Mail's popular concert, at St James' Church, in Barrow, will see hundreds of people get into the spirit of Christmas.

The Children of St James' C of E Junior School will once again perform music and carols, while members of the church community will give readings.

Evening Mail editor James Higgins said: "Our annual carol service is one of the events I truly look forward to every year.

"Its about community; about people from all walks of life joining together in the glorious setting of St James' Church to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

"I hope to see the pews packed - and would welcome everyone to join me and the Evening Mail team for a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie after the event."

The service will be led by the Rev Jack Knill-Jones, with the massed choirs directed by Mark Latimer.

Proceedings at the Blake Street Church get under way at 6.30pm.