Metal lovers are set for a rocking start to Christmas with the return of the UK's only official Heavy Metal Carol Service.
'A Very Heavy Christmas' is back for the third year at Grimsby Minster, North East Lincolnshire.

The Carol Service will be held on Saturday at 5.30pm, and promises to be a gloriously festive 'alternative' Christmas celebration.

And for 2013 organisers have promised a feast of music and words that will include appearances from a variety of musicians and performers.

Organiser Simon Cross said: "We have some fantastic musicians involved this year, including Yorkshire based heavy rockers Metanoia, as well as a 'super group' of heavy metal talent who will be performing classic Christmas carols in unfamiliar ways.

"As well as the hard stuff, we've got a slot from purveyors of fine grungey psychedelia Seaside Johnson, and a special solo appearance from talented singer Vicky Frost.

"We will also have a set of 'lessons' from the battle scarred veteran of the Punk wars Eagle Spits, who will be delivering some of his own poetry 'readings'.

"This is a great opportunity for anyone who loves Christmas, but perhaps wants something a bit different from a Carol Service."

The Very Heavy Christmas Carol Service, which was first held in 2011, is also an opportunity for Charities who work with the homeless to raise awareness of their work.

A collection is taken at the event to raise funds in support of the work of the Humber Region YMCA and other agencies who work with people who are without a permanent home in North East Lincolnshire. All donations go straight to the charities.