Madam, once more, our beautiful parish church of St Mary's has been the setting for an interesting and unusual event. This was the Crib Fest held there last weekend, in aid of the church and the Mother's Union.

The focal point was the large and colourful crib owned by the Church, which was displayed on the steps of the lower altar.

Set out on tables convered with white cloths and decorated with sprigs of holly and fir cones was an amazing and international variety of cribs, ranging from a Vietnamese interpretation in recycled paper to a tiny green glass French creation. Each was a delight in it's own way.

I would like to thank the organisers for a very special introduction to the Christmas festivities.

Dorothy Cross, Ross