Advent starts in just over a week –and churches across the region are putting the finishing touches to a wide range of events to celebrate Christmas.

One of the biggest festivals is at All Saints, Dickleburgh, where the 12th annual South Norfolk Christmas tree extravaganza, 50 Christmas Trees in a Church, is being staged,

There is an opening ceremony at 5pm on Saturday, November 28 and the festival runs from Sunday, November 29 to Sunday, December 6, 10am to 7pm daily.

The prize-giving ceremony is at 5pm on Sunday, December 6 in the church.

The festival is in aid of EACH (East Anglia's Children's Hospices), Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital oncology department and the Benefice of Dickleburgh and the Pulhams.

Entrance is free, but there is a £1 charge for a voting slip. Donations are welcome.

This year's theme is Christmas Hope. There will be trees of all shapes and sizes and some handmade featuring special seasonal messages.

For more information ring 01379 676256. Website: www.50christmas trees.com.

Ipswich Road URC is marking the start of Advent with a four day event called This is Christmas. Displays will illustrate journeys, events and traditions associated with Christmas. There will be trees, models and nativity scenes put together by members of the congregation, premises users, and local young people. The display is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. There will be stalls and light lunches on Saturday.

On Sunday at 9.45am there is morning worship and the display opens at 2pm. An Advent Songs of Praise starts at 6pm led by the Rev Andrew Tyler. Coffee/tea and mince pies to follow.

Hickling Methodist Church's Christmas Tree Festival is being held on Saturday, November 28, 10am to 4pm and Sunday, November 29, noon to 4pm. The church also has a Christmas fair from 10am to 2pm.

How is your church celebrating Christmas? Email ian.clarke@archant.co.uk