PICKERING Methodist Church hosted a Crib Festival and Christmas fair at the weekend.

Reverend Ruth Duck said 50 Nativity sets and pieces of artwork were on display.

"Some were lent to us from individuals and other churches, some were made specifically for the event - glass, wood, wool, cardboard, porcelain, plasticine - every material imaginable," she added.

"Some families took the opportunity to dress up and pose in the stable - so their photographs will create very personalised Christmas Cards."

Rev Duck said: "The Singing Squad from Pickering Junior School came and sang some festive music, and Advent at Pickering Methodist Church started in a fantastic manner.

Around £800 was raised at Christmas fair, also held over the weekend, for the church's building refurbishment project - and more donations were given at the Crib Festival which is being shared with Action for Children.

Rev Duck said: "Thank you to everyone who supported the event."