CHURCHES across Dorset are inviting community members to help support some of the UK's most vulnerable children this festive season by supporting the Christingle celebration.

A number of services will be held in aid of The Children's Society with proceeds funding life-changing support for vulnerable children and young people across the country.

Some festive fundraisers involve children decorating oranges with red ribbon, cocktail sticks and sweets surrounded by candles - all separate components that make up the Christingle tradition.

It is a symbolic object used in the Advent services and means 'Christ Light' used to celebrate Jesus Christ as 'the light of the world'.

The tradition has been taking place for nearly half a century and gives people of all ages the chance to join in, light a candle and perhaps says a prayer.

Christingle fundraising events play a key role in supporting The Children's Society's work. In the UK there are almost four million children and young people dealing with hardship, abuse and neglect.

This year, the charity is aiming to raise £1.2million.

Matthew Reed, chief executive of The Children’s Society, said: “We’re delighted that so many Christingle events are happening across Dorset to help disadvantaged children and we’re truly grateful to everyone who attends for their support.

“Vulnerable children and young people are at the very centre of what we do and we need to make sure their voices are heard so their lives can be improved. These Christingle events in Dorset and across the country make it possible for us to carry on our vital work and transform the lives of even more children in need of our help.”

To find out about local Christingles in the area, including Hurn, Christchurch and Wimborne, visit christingle.org/findmyevent.