CHURCHGOERS in Okehampton will join forces with the Wren Trust this Christmas season to take part in a service of carols in the folk tradition.
The special service next week will combine a selection of carols, some well known, some local — many with tunes which pre-date the well known ones — accompanied by traditional instruments and interspersed with the Christmas story told in a folk style. This is the first time the Wren Trust have held such an event, which they describe as a 'one off original'.
The service will take place in St James Chapel in the middle of town on Tuesday, December 16, at 7.30pm.
There have already been two workshops to prepare for the service, which have explored the art of story-telling and taught people brand new carols and traditional versions of well-known favourites. Singing on the evening will be supported by the Okehampton Youth Chorus and the Packhorse Singers. All are welcome and entrance is free.
The Rev Stephen Cook said he was hopeful this new departure would be a wonderful event. 'Both the church and Wren feel very excited about this venture, which brings together the message of Christmas with the strong local folk traditions,' he said.
In a candlelit setting, carols and stories from Devon and Cornish folk tradition will mix with more familiar items with plenty of chances to join in.
Wren musicians will play from the Musicians Gallery, high above the West Door, to welcome people into the Chapel and the first few items will be accompanied from there, echoing the old-style Westcountry church music of Thomas Hardy's day.
The whole event will resonate with images and sounds from historic sources like the Davies Gilbert carol collection, made in Cornwall in 1822.