Churches in Dorset are holding a series of special Christmas services to help vulnerable children.

Christingle celebrations are being held throughout December in Dorchester, on Portland and areas of west and north Dorset.

These events are open to all, and aim to raise crucial funds for children and young people facing severe challenges, including abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Christingle services attract thousands each year and are key in supporting the vital work of The Children’s Society in aiding the nation's most at-risk children.

Mark Russell, CEO at the Children’s Society, said: "Christingle is an essential part of our annual calendar, and it is wonderful to see so many happenings across Dorset. Every year these events help us be there for the vulnerable children we support and we’re truly grateful to everyone who attends.

“These celebrations in Dorset are more than festive gatherings; they are critical in making it possible for us to continue with our vital work and transform the lives of even more children in need of our help.”

The services focus on bringing hope and a sense of community to some of the UK's most vulnerable children.

They offer a unique festive experience, where participants decorate oranges with red ribbon, cocktail sticks, sweets, and candles, each element symbolising a different part of the Christian story.

This tradition, with over fifty years of history, invites people of all ages to join in, light a candle, and enjoy the communal warmth of this special occasion.

Christingle services across Dorset will be held at the following locations:

  • St Peter’s Church, Church Lane, Portesham, December 3 at 3.30pm
  • St Peter’s Church, High Street Shaftesbury, December 3 at 4.30pm
  • Easton Methodist Church, Easton Square, Portland, December 9 at 3pm 
  • St Mary’s the Virgin Church, High Street, Gillingham, December 10 at 4pm
  • The Storehouse Church, 3 Cambridge Road, Dorchester, December 17 at 10.30am
  • St Mary’s, Main Road, Mosterton, December 24 at 6pm
  • St Andrew’s Church, The Street, West Stafford, December 24 at 4pm 

To find out about local Christingles near you visit  www.childrenssociety.org.uk/attend