Carols on the beach welcomed by the community

Blackpool Sands in South Devon proved a magical backdrop for a festive carol service that was held on the beach on Saturday.

The event was organised by the Revd Dr Andrew Langley and the Churches in Dartmouth and District. Dr. Langley said: “It was a wonderful community event with the beautiful expanse of the beach allowing people to attend while safely social distancing. Our staging and sound system ensured everyone could hear the carols and our retelling of the Christmas story. We were delighted to welcome the Dartmouth Town Crier and his consort Les and Liz Ellis who opened the proceedings as well as The Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt. Revd. Nick McKinnel, and the Mayor of Dartmouth, Graham Webb who really got into the spirit of things by playing the donkey who carried Mary to Bethlehem — in true pantomime style!”

Charles Deuchar, who attended with his wife Zuzanna and children Sofinka and Angus, said: “It was a lovely  service and very heart warming. To listen to carols against such a beautiful backdrop was quite special and huge thanks are due to Andrew for organising the event for the local community.”

There’s talk of Carols In The Sands becoming an annual event!