Hundreds of people are set to head for the Barrow Raiders rugby league stadium for a huge outdoors community carols service on Friday (17 December).

Churches across the town’s mission community – which support each other missionally - have joined forces with the club to organise the free event at the Craven Park ground, with gates due to open at 5pm for a 6.30pm start.

The Rev Tony Ford, who is Priest in Charge of St Mark’s Barrow and has been a chaplain of the Raiders since 2018, said: “This is something I’ve talked with the club about for a while, but Covid meant that the plans had to be put on hold. I’m delighted that we’re now able to push ahead with things. I know it will be a lovely evening and one that is accessible for everyone. We hope to see as many people as possible at the ground.”

The event will run over two halves with carols sung for 30 minutes before a 15-minute break and then a further half hour’s festive singing. There will be a short Bible Society family video and Tony will talk for five minutes around John 3:16.

Reflecting the mission community approach, the Rev Robin Ham from St Paul’s Barrow will act as MC and Jonny Harrison the Pastor from Spring Mount Church will lead the music.

Robin said: “Barrow Raiders has huge traction in the community and I know that their Facebook and Twitter posts about the service have been shared hundreds of times ; that’s great to hear. This is something which we as a mission community have been looking to do for a while so it’s wonderful to finally get to this point.”

People will be invited to sing from the pitch or in the club’s main stand. Refreshments will also be available for those attending.

A Barrow Raiders spokesperson said: “We are pleased to be able to bring the community together as one, whilst being in an outdoor environment during these uncertain times. We see ourselves as the hub of the community, supporting numerous good causes and look forward to hosting the biggest service the town has had. Tony, Jonny and Robin have all been fantastic in making this happen and we look forward to welcoming everyone to the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium this Friday.”

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For further information contact Dave Roberts, Diocesan Head of Communications, on 07469 153658 or at communications@carlislediocese.org.uk.