A GROUP that represents the parish churches of towns and villages has announced it is changing its name and service patterns in the new year.

Manningtree Benefice is a group comprised of churches in Mistley, Manningtree and Bradfield.

The group has announced it will be changing its name to Cross Reach Churches in the new year.

A spokesman for Manningtree Benefice said: “We will be making the change as smoothly as possible, but please look out here for important info, and make sure you're following us on our social media pages.

“You can also join our weekly newsletter for even more up to date info - just message us with your email, and we'll add you on.”

Manningtree Benefice has also announced its plans for the Christmas period.

On Christmas Eve there will be a nativity singalong in St Lawrence Church, Bradfield at 4pm.

The same day will see a crib service in St Marys Church, Mistley at 4pm and a Bethlehem Midnight communion service in St Mary’s and St Michael’s Church, Mistley, at 9pm

Rounding off Christmas Eve is the midnight communion service in St Mary’s Church, Lawford at 11.30pm.

On Christmas Day, an all-age celebration will take place at St Lawrence Church, Bradfield, at 10am with a communion service in St Mary’s Church, Lawford at 10am.

There will be no online services this year but residents who want to catch up on previous editions can do so.

For more information on Manningtree Benefice visit manningtreebenefice.co.uk/.