CHILDREN took their toys to church yesterday for a service and parade.

The festive fun in Darlington marked the start of Elm Ridge Methodist Church's programme of Christmas events.

Next Monday, there will be carols at the church, in Carmel Road South, at 7pm, with tenor Paul Smith, accompanist Allan Coombes and conductor Myra Sanders. Tickets are £4, and £2 for children.

A nativity service will take place on December 21 at 10.45am, and there will be a carol service at 6pm.

On Christmas Eve, a Christingle service will take place at 5pm, and communion will be at 11.15pm. A family service will start at 10.30am on Christmas Day.