Spread a little joy this Christmas by making a star and displaying it in your window for Advent.

St Mary’s Church in Long Ditton is inviting everyone to join in to remind others that they are not alone.

Rev Kuhan Satkunanayagam of the church in Church Road, said: “For many people, Christmas will look a little different this year. It will be hard for friends and families to meet up, and some of us may even find ourselves in isolation or quarantine during a season which usually brings people together.

“From Advent Sunday on November 29 [next Sunday], join with us to brighten every street by making a star to display in your window. It can be as big or small as you like, and you can use anything you have handy: paints, crayons, lights, glitter… the limit is your imagination!

“We’ve chosen the symbol of a star because for us, as Christians, it reminds us of the star that the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus, who came to bring joy to the world. But it’s also a symbol that holds meaning for people of other faiths and none.”

Mr Satkunanayagam said stars, like his first origami attempt pictured above, can represent hopes, dreams, wishes… things we all need more than ever this year.

“We hope looking at these stars will bring light and hope to all at the end of a dark year.”

If you are not up to making a star, the rector has some printed out for you to use. Email him at [email protected]

For star drawings, ideas and to share your photos of your star creations visit www.facebook.com/LongDittonShines