St Mary's Church in Ashwell hosted a 'musical marathon' to raise money for future musical projects.

The 'feast of hymns' was held at the church on Saturday, February 25.

Members of the congregation, villagers and visitors were invited to choose and sponsor their favourite hymn, and these were sung - almost without a break - for six hours.

More than 75 hymns were sung in total, with attendees sharing touching stories of weddings and school assemblies - the chosen hymns capturing important moments in their lives.

Choir director Bene't Coldstream and organist Pete Eaglesfield led the hymns, and everyone was invited to come on stage and join in for their favourite hymn. At one stage there were more than 40 people of all ages in the choir stalls.

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The Mothers' Union also served refreshments throughout the day, bringing in many new faces to the church.

St Mary's Choir surpassed their fundraising target of £2,000, and the money will be used to support and grow the musical traditions at St Mary's - updating their music and offering musical workshops and outreach.

The church comes under the Diocese of St Albans, and is one of the largest village churches in the country.