Vicar James Pitkin shows off his Advent angel which he hopes will set a shining example to his parishioners.

Rev Pitkin is challenging the people of the United Benefice of Lockerley, East Dean, East Tytherley and West Tytherley to make their own angels to put out in their gardens from December 12.

He was inspired by the success of the West Dean scarecrow festival.

“Angels will remind everyone that Christmas is coming,” he said.

Mr Pitkin added that they need not be as large as the 8ft high illuminated angel which can be seen at St John's in Lockerley, which was made by John Niblett of the Church Leadership Team.

Very soon the angel will look down upon a lifesize nativity scene at the church.