Preparations are well underway for Deal's biggest Carol service - by Candlelight at St George’s Church tonight and tomorrow.

This year’s service takes place on Sunday and Monday at 7pm.

The Rev Chris Spencer said: “The choir and orchestra have been rehearsing every Sunday afternoon and it promises to be a very special evening.”

Contemporary pieces Annunciation and Jesus The Light Has Come by musical director Joy Spencer tell the story of the angels’ visits to Mary and the shepherds.

St George’s young singers will perform That First Christmas Day by singer/songwriter Paul Field.

Carols and readings from the Bible story give the chance to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

Everyone is welcome and there will be mulled wine fruit punch and mince pies afterwards.

On Christmas Eve, there will be dressing up to tell the story of the birth of Jesus, and Christingle oranges for children at the Christingle Family Carols at 3pm and at 5pm.

Christmas morning sees carols Communion at 10.30am – with celebration drinks to follow. It all takes just one hour, so there’s plenty of time to go back and finish cooking the Christmas dinner.

Team vicar Shiela Porter said: “We love to welcome everyone to our Christmas celebrations. As we think about Jesus as the light in the darkness, God’s message of love and goodness can bring hope to us all.

“We especially love it when visitors join us and find out just how much fun we have celebrating the good news too!”