THE Malvern Hills District Footpath Society held its eighth annual carol service for local walking groups on Saturday, December 13.

To begin with, about 100 walkers from Ledbury, Bromsgrove, Worcester, Evesham, Powick and Malvern walked the footpaths in the Severn Stoke area in sunny, crisp winter weather. After the walks about 120 people assembled with friends in St Denys Church, Severn Stoke for a most enjoyable service of carols, readings and thoughts about Christmas organised by Lyn Everitt and led by Reverend Mark Badger with the Society's own Sally Linsey playing the organ.

The day finished with cuisine to make Bake Off envious, with homemade hot soup provided by Rosie Styles, and mince pies, sausage rolls and hot drinks provided by members of the Society.