AS Christmas approaches, churches across Midsomer Norton and the surrounding areas are preparing for a range of festive services to celebrate the season.

These services offer local residents a chance to come together for traditional carols, Christingle services, and family-focused events.

Below is a list of the upcoming Christmas services in the area.

Christmas Eve, December 24, 4.30pm Vigil Mass, Downside Abbey Church, preceded by Carols at 4pm. Christmas Eve, December 24, 10.00 pm Night Mass, Downside Abbey Church, preceded by Carols at 9.30pm. Christmas Day, December 25, 11.00 am Parish Mass, St Benedict’s Church, Stratton-on-the-Fosse.

Sunday, December 15, 6:30 pm. Traditional Carol Service. Sunday, December 22, 4 pm Christingle Service. Christmas Eve, December 24, 2:30 pm Family Crib Service. Christmas Day, December 25, 10 am Joint Benefice Service Communion

Sunday, December 8, 7 pm Carol Service. Sunday, December 15, 11:15am Christingle Service. Christmas Eve, December 24, 4 pm Family Crib Service. Christmas Eve, December 25, 11:30 pm Joint Benefice Service Midnight Communion.

Sunday, December 22, 6pm Carol Service. Christmas Day, December 25, 9.30am Christmas Service.

Sunday, December 15, 10.30am Nativity Service. Sunday, December 22, 5 pm Making Christingles, followed by 6pm Candlelit Carol Service. Christmas Day, December 25, 10am Family Celebration Service.

For more information visit each of the churches websites or social media pages.