DOZENS of people packed into Bolton Parish Church for their annual candlelit carol service tonight.

Mayor Cllr Colin Shaw was joined by representatives from Bolton’s business, education and music communities in delivering readings at the 6pm service.

Members of the congregation held candles aloft throughout, as they sang hymns and enjoyed music from the church’s choir, led by director Michael Pain.

Joining the mayor in reading lessons were Dave Bagley, chief executive of homelessness charity Urban Outreach, Leslie Parlane, headteacher of Clevelands Preparatory School and Chris Wormald, conductor of Smithills Brass Band.

Isabel Fredenburger, director of Bolton Law Society, Rod Sellars, chairman of Seddon Construction Ltd, Geoff Gwyther, chairman of Bolton U3A and the head boy and girl from Canon Slade School, James Whittle and Alexandra Mason.

Addressing a church shimmering in candlelit and boasting a 15ft-tall lavishly decorated Christmas tree, Reverend Judie Horrocks wished peace and good will to people throughout the world.

She also urged people to remember those in Bolton less fortunate at Christmas, such as those lonely, sick or homeless.