Twyford

The official lighting of the Christmas tree lights at Hurst took place on St Nicholas day, 1st December 2006. As villagers began to gather at the tree, situated by the children’s playing field near the village Post Office, the children were handed goody bags with a soft drink, chocolates, and a Christmas muffin.

The adults were treated to mince pies and mulled wine. At 6.45 p.m. the children gathered round the 20 ft high tree as the Reverend John Coombes, Vicar of St Nicholas church, pressed the switch for the illuminations to come on. Everyone then sang carols as the lights on the tree twinkled and a full moon shone overhead.

About 200 people came to the party – twice as many as expected. Wayne Smith, Chairman of the Hurst Parish Council was delighted with the response. ‘This is the first time that we have organised a lighting ceremony,’ he said, ‘And we definitely intend to make it as an annual event.’

Christmas services at St Nicholas church will include the Service of Carols and Readings for Christmas at 6.30 p.m. on Sunday, 17th December. On Sunday, 24th December, a Crib Service will be held at 4.00 p.m. followed by the Midnight Eucharist at 11.30 p.m. On Christmas Day, the Family Eucharist will take place at 11.00 a.m.

The Hurst Gospel Hall will have Family Carols at 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, 24th December. The Christmas morning service on 25th December will be held at 10.45 a.m.