The festive season is almost upon us and so is the sale of Christmas cards to help raise funds for St Wulstan's in Little Malvern.  

Welland amateur artist Charlotte Carver has been busy designing and printing her own selection of cards to suit everyone.  Among her bestselling designs is "Snowfall and Sunset at St Wulstan's in Little Malvern" where Charlotte is a parishioner.  

The church is known internationally as the final resting place of local composer Edward Elgar and attracts visitors all year round.

This autumn Charlotte has also produced a Christmas card based on the popular song "A Partridge in a Pear Tree".  

When researching the song she said: “I discovered there is a tradition that each line represents a different aspect of the Christian faith. For example, the ten lords a-leaping symbolise the ten commandments, the four calling birds are the four gospels and the Partridge is Jesus."

The two new Christmas cards sell at £5 for 10.  Also available is the classic "Annunciation" card (£4 for 10) which features a scene from the magnificent stained-glass windows made by Birmingham-based Hardman Studios in the 1880s for the Lady Chapel at St Wulstan's in Little Malvern.

"The tradition of sending cards at Christmas is as popular as ever," said Charlotte. "With the price of 2nd class stamps frozen at 75p, why not keep in touch with friends far and near at this time of year by sending them a limited edition card, with your love and best wishes for joy and peace this Christmas." 

Funds raised will benefit the church's restoration appeal.

Buy Christmas cards