A host of angels has descended upon a Bootle church to help parishioners prepare for Christmas.

Many local groups have created angel figures, which are on display at St Michael's Church until the new year.

The angel festival was devised by associate priest, the Reverend Canon Angela Overton-Benge.

She wanted to give thanks for a generous grant from The National Churches Trust, which is being used to address damp problems in the church building.

The £3,000 grant will be used to replace gutters around the building, with a further £3,000 awarded by the local Church and Chapel Charity.

Rev Angela has expressed her gratitude for the grants, which have allowed restoration work to begin on the largest building in Bootle.

She said: “There has been a lot of enthusiasm in the community for the festival with people looking forward to making and displaying their angels.

"The church is open during the day for visitors to come and see our unique decorations!”