A CHURCH in the North-East has held a giant Christmas card exhibition over the weekend.

Visitors were welcomed to St Mary's Church at West Rainton yesterday and today (Sunday, December 15) to see the display of around 15 cards.

They were all created by local businesses and community groups.

Mince pies and mulled wine or tea and coffee were also available at the free event to help people get into the festive spirit.

Last year the church held a Christmas tree exhibition to launch its 150th anniversary celebrations, which have run throughout 2014.

Lynne Willis, who is a member of the congregation, said: “We had such a wonderful response last year that we thought it would be a great shame not to conclude with something similar.

“We did not want to do the same thing and people have come up with their own ideas. It is a lovely way of spreading the message of the joy of Christmas.

“People have come up with their own way of doing it.”

A carol service will be held at the church on Monday, December 15 at 6.30pm. On Monday, December 22, a quiet and reflective Christmas Service will be held at 7.30pm.

The Christmas Eve Communion Service is at 7pm, and the Christmas Morning Service will be at 10 am.

All visitors welcome.