THE sound of Christmas carols drew people in from the cold to try Colchester’s first “cafechurch”.

Churchgoers hired out Costa Coffee, in Culver Square, to launch the new idea, which aims to promote Christianity in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The evening included carols and contemporary Christmas songs performed by a guitarist and singers, quizzes and informal talks, along with a cup of coffee.

Town chaplain, the Rev Alison Finch, said the evening had gone really well.

“I think a lot of people came in because of the live music, and there was a good positive atmosphere,” she said.

“The people who came in seemed to appreciate it and joined in.”

Monthly cafechurch events are set to begin in the spring.