A new 'All Saints' CD is building up a strong fan club - but it has nothing to do with the chart-topping girl band, writes Rosie Parveen.

Churchgoers at All Saints Church in Marcham, near Abingdon, have compiled their own CD featuring cover versions of chart hits and traditional hymns to help develop community spirit among youngsters.

Children as young as nine helped contribute to the "All Saints at Worship" recording. Young people from Marcham chose their favourite pop songs and recorded their own solo versions, which now form tracks on the church album. Pop songs include Lost in Space by chart-topping band The Lighthouse Family.

The Rev Robin Lapwood said: "We wanted to do something that reflects the life and vibrancy of the church family and its mix of old and young."

Callum Francis, 13, sang alongside school children Ellen Cumber, Katherine Jones, Amy Croasdale, Joe Evans and Katy Smith, who all live in Marcham.

The CD comes after troubled times at the church.

Vandals daubed the church building with paint and even shot at the vicarage with air rifles last month. But Mr Lapwood said: "There are many young people in this village who are good people.

"But, as with any community, there are one or two trouble-makers.

"It leads to misunderstandings and bad feelings.

"We wanted local people to do something practical to get rid of negative energy and this CD was a great example.

"It has given them a sense of dignity and recognises their skills."

The CD is selling well in the village and Mr Lapwood has not ruled out chart success.

He said: "It is very popular here in Marcham, so who knows."

Story date: Friday 07 May

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