Members of a Watford church have decorated their building with shopping baskets in preparation for its Christmas services.

The Wellspring Church Centre, in Lower High Street, Watford, home of Watford Community Church, has been decked out with words and decorations that celebrate the "priceless" gift of life that Christians celebrate at this time of year.

The centrepiece of the decorations is an array of illuminated shopping baskets suspended in line with the cross-form in the front windows of the building. The baskets are lined with Christmas lights and contain gifts bearing words like hope, justice and courage.

Rev Tim Roberts, Senior Minister, said: "We love Christmas and we want to make a statement about the pure essence of the Christmas message.

"Though it is possible to enjoy the things that money can buy, there is a gift that is utterly priceless: the birth of Jesus is the hope of the world and his free gift of life is the ultimate gift.

"Together with all the churches in Watford we want to make a bold statement this Christmas. We want to ask questions about some of the superficial and stressful aspects of this time of year, and invite people to our carol services to explore the real-life story of Jesus. As Christians we believe this message is one of peace instead of chaos, one of true value instead of retail price."

In line with this, Churches Together groups are holding a real-life live nativity on December 20 and 21 in St Mary’s Square.