A CHURCH in Kempsey was painted green as the community turned out to mark St Patrick's Day.

The event at St Mary's Church in the village near Worcester saw around 260 guests take part in craft activities, enjoy illusionist Mark Harrington and hear Steve Thomson from St Peter’s Baptist Church tell the story of St Patrick.

Children from Kempsey Primary School also played and sang some Irish music to the delight of guests.

The Rector, Mark Badger, said: "We had a great time, it was a real community event and it was brilliant to see so many people entering into the spirit of the event by wearing something green."

Sunday, April 20, will be another day of fun at the church with a balloon race taking place after the short, simple and fun Easter family service from 10.30am.