Christmas events around Chelmsford include:

Christmas carol services at Chelmsford Cathedral.

Thursday 23 December 6.00pm - Service of nine lessons and carols (limited seating) Sung by the Cathedral Choir

Friday 24 December Christmas Eve 4.00pm - Crib Service with Christingle At this service there will be a collection for the work of The Children's Society

6.00pm - Service of Nine Lessons and Carols Sung by the Cathedral Choir

11.30pm - Christmas Midnight Eucharist (with incense) Sung by the Consort Sermon: The Dean

Saturday 25 December Christmas Day 8.00am - Holy Communion 10.00am - Choral Family Eucharist Sung by the Cathedral Choir Sermon: The Bishop of Chelmsford

Sunday 26h December St Stephen's Day 8.00am - Holy Communion 10.00am - Sung Eucharist Sermon: The Canon Theologian 6.00pm - Evensong with Carols (no choir)

The Chelmer and Blackwater Ramblers are holding a festival of Winter Walks. between Christmas and New Year. Starting points are as follows:

Boxing Day: South Woodham Railway Station

December 27: Broomfield Community Centre

December 29: Maldon Safeway's Supermarket

New Years Eve: Southminster Station Arms.

For more information call 01245 609064

Christmas Carols in South Woodham

The Holy Trinity Shared Church is holding a selection of carol services in the build up to Christmas. On Christmas Eve there is a crib service providing the curtain raiser for Christmas Day services, a Boxing Day walk and other events Call 01245 322134 ro more details.

The Church of the Holy Spirit, Widford is holding a musical adaptation of Rumours of Angels on December 22 and 23. This free event starts at 8pm and includes a buffet and mulled wine. Call 01245 355 989 for more details.

Unnaturally Natural Exhibition.

Chelmsford Museum Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street. Until February 6. The studio secrets of taxidermist, model maker, wildlife imitator and artist Derek Frampton are revelaed in a visually stunning exhibition with an unusual theme. Admission free.

Marconi Athletic and Social Club Friday December 24 Christmas Eve - Christmas Dance For more information please call 01245 287298

Hylands House Visit Hylands House Sunday December 26 Boxing Day enjoy a hot toddy and mince pies. Entry by advance tickets only. Call 01245 606505

Chelmsford Cramphorn Theatre, Fairfield Road December 20 - January 1. The Chelmsford Young Generation's production of dastardly deeds on Treasure Island. Call box offiice: 01245 606505.

Chelmsford Civic Theatre December 4 - January 8. Family pantomime fun with Dick Whittington. Call box office: 01245 606505.

More events are available in our what's on guide