RESIDENTS are being invited to remember a loved one this Christmas with a special service at St Peters Church in Redditch.

Rev Richard Harding will lead the Blue Christmas Service at the Ipsley Church Lane site on Thursday, December 21, at 4pm.

Church spokesperson Rhoda Lingard said: "Sometimes the exciting Christmas services may be too overwhelming for those who have suffered loss in some way over the last year.

"We invite folk to join us for a quiet, thoughtful service lighting individual candles, hearing readings and singing quiet carols.

"The pain of bereavement, loss of employment or dreams can be difficult.

"We hope that the service will offer the hope and joy of God's love that will be there even in the dark times of our lives."

Refreshments will be served after the service.