THE judges of the Crediton Parish Church Christmas Card and Colouring competitions were Frank Letch, Eileen Brassington and Judith Harris.

The Winner of the Children’s Christmas Card Competition was Kyle of the 1st Crediton Scouts. The judges really enjoyed his hand-drawn picture which they felt really stuck to the theme of “Comfort and Joy”. The mug on the table they thought had a wonderful hot chocolate with marshmallows. Judging was on a cold day and it brought warmth to the proceedings.

Lucy-Grace Reynolds’ entry to the Christmas Card Competition was Highly Commended. She put on the back of her card that she chose a snowman because the snow brings her joy.

Frank Letch thought that a card depicting a snowman was reaching out to give everyone a hug. He said it made him smile as soon as he saw it.

The Adult Winner of the Christmas Card Competition was Sarah Pressland and her card depicted the same image of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus, as she has created on the Parish Church gates, which have been greatly admired.

The Colouring Competition Winner was Lucy-Grace Reynolds. The judges felt that the colouring was very apt for this year especially with the rainbow stable. But it also looked as if Joseph was wearing a mask. They also loved the fact that it had been coloured in completely.

Bishop Furry came out of quarantine to make his selection of his favourite entries.

His favourite colouring competition entry was by Gracie (9) from Kidz Star Club. He was very impressed by all the detail on the letters and keeping within the lines.

His favourite Christmas card entry was a multiple entry from Newton St Cyres Primary School Nursery Class.

He thought it was very apt that the trees were covered in rainbow stripes for all those working so hard to look after us.

With regard to Comfort and Joy events in the Parish Church, Stella Stephens, Festival Co-ordinator, said she would like to thank all those who have been creative in replacing the Christmas Tree Festival this year.

She sent special thanks to Jo Ward and his team for getting the big tree decorated and the floodlighting of the church and also for the star over the South Porch.

She also thanked George Mortimer for kindly donating and erecting the tree.

She thanked Ann Jerman for her assistance and Peter and Debs Bunn for organising the Treasure Trail around the town.

She also thanked Mel Collier for creating the online Family Carol Service.

Stella was pleased that the events have raised about £400 for the church along with floodlighting donations.

She added that the cards had all been sent to care homes in the area.