A 600-year-old medieval church in the city centre will host a lantern and carol-filled event this Christmas.

For the first time, families will be able to join a procession around Hay Hill, singing carols and appreciating the Christmas light displays, including Norwich’s new Canopy of Lights.

Homemade lanterns for children to take and keep will be used as part of the festivities.

A traditional manger scene will be formed as part of the serviceA traditional manger scene will be formed as part of the service (Image: Newsquest) Curate, Naomi Tuma, said: "We have, for a long time, wanted to do something especially for children here in the city centre at Christmas time.

"We hope that being part of a parade with lanterns on Hay Hill and then seeing the Christmas story played out in our beautiful church in the simplest way in the run-up to Christmas will excite and inspire them at this wonderful time of year."

This new procession will take place as part of the annual Crib Service on December 15 in which the Christmas story will be acted out by angels, shepherds, wise men and Mary and Joseph.

The church is in the heart of the cityThe church is in the heart of the city (Image: Newsquest) A traditional manger scene will be set up for people to visit at the end and refreshments will be there too.

Children are encouraged to dress up as any of the Christmas story characters to take part in the event.

Those wishing to take part in the festivities should arrive at 2.30pm for a prompt start at 3pm.