Friday 12th, there are two opportunities to enjoy some carol singing:

Stockbury has Carols on the Green with the Salvation Army from 7pm

Lower Halstow has Carols and Coffee at the Memorial Hall from 7.30pm.

Saturday 13th, there is the monthly fundraising sale at St Mary's Upchurch, with festive refreshments from 10am.

All Saints Iwade has two creative sessions in the church, Table Decoration making from 10am and Wreath Making from 1.30pm. One session costs £30, both £50; to book call 07845769425.

And later in the day, the annual Memorial Carols at St Mary's Newington starts at 5.30pm, with an opportunity to mark the season in a gentle service of readings and carols, candle lighting and hanging memorial stars on the Christmas tree as we remember those who have died and who we miss particularly at this time of year.

We have our usual services on Sunday 14th  and Assembly on Sunday at Iwade will be having their Christmas Special from 3pm.

Carol singing around the Christmas Tree on The Street in Upchurch is on Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th from 6.30pm.

On Wednesday 17th, St Michaels' Hartlip has Soup and Soul from 10.30 to 12.

Then on Thursday 18th, it's Christmas Cornerstone at St Mary's Newington from 9.30am, with youngsters from the school and carols as well as festive refreshments.

And later in the day, carol singing at the Rose and Crown in Hartlip from 7.30pm.

The schools all break up at the end of the week, and on Saturday 20th at 2.30pm at St Margaret's Lower Halstow there is an afternoon of Christmas crafts from 2.30pm.