THE traditional carol service in Taunton's Vivary Park is back by popular demand.

The event, around the park bandstand had been a favourite family fixture for years until it lapsed in recent years.

Now, thanks to Taunton Deane Borough Council’s community leisure team, it’s going to be more Merry Gentlemen than Bleak Midwinter.

The singing is due to start at 6.30pm on Monday, December 18, with two choirs and a band taking part and joined by members of the public, who are asked to take along a torch or lantern.

Taunton Deane Male Voice Choir and the New Horizon Singers will lead the carols, along with Taunton Concert Band, and Taunton Deane Mayor Cllr Hazel-Prior-Sankey has agreed to attend.

Around 1,000 carol sheets are being printed so everyone can join in.

Cllr Catherine Herbert, who was instrumental in reviving the event, said: "The Vivary Park carols are so well loved by people of all ages – it really makes everyone feel Christmassy.

"It has a wonderful atmosphere and I'm delighted it’s happening again this year. It’s a chance for people to link up with friends and make it a real community event. It says Christmas like no other event."