THE Community Prison carol service at St Michael and All Angels Church in Princetown, proved to be a special occasion as the community of Princetown met together.

The Salvation Army band played, the West Dartmoor Mission Community Choir led the singing and the congregation joined in the service to celebrate Christmas.

The Rev Louise Cooper, the Anglican Prison Chaplain, gave a short address which was peppered with Christmas cracker jokes as well as a timely reminder of the reason for the season.

After the service the High Moorland WI served mulled wine and mine pies. The French Consul, M Alain Sibiril, donated a hamper which was auctioned, raising almost £100 for the Churches Conservation Trust, which now looks after the church building.

The Rev Nick Shutt, who led the service, said: 'It is wonderful to see the church full and everyone enjoying both the worship and each other's company.'

Details of all Christmas services across the West Dartmoor Mission Community can be found at http://www.westdartmoorbenefice.co.uk">www.westdartmoorbenefice.co.uk