A COMMUNITY carol service organised by a disability charity will today return to York Minster for a fourth time.

The service, run by United Response, attracts a congregation of 1,500 people.

This year's event will again feature Northallerton man David Langford, who has taken part in the service every year to date.

He will carry the Minster's cross in a procession to mark the beginning of the service.

The 38-year-old also carries the cross at All Saints' Church, in Northallerton, every other Sunday.

He has been working with United Response at its skills training service for people with learning disabilities for the last nine years.

"I'm really excited about carrying the cross again," he said. "I have to remember to put on my robes, stand up straight, walk slowly and keep my head up."

York Minster's head verger, Alex Carberry, rehearses with Mr Langford and supports him to lead the procession.

He said: "It's great to see how much he gets out of taking part each year, and we really enjoy having him around.

"He's become a very familiar face at the Minster."

Favourite Carols for All starts a 1.45pm and includes a performance by York's All Saints' School Choir.